Cemeteries in Rock Island County (County)

Rock Island County, located in northwestern Illinois along the Mississippi River, was established in 1831 and named for Rock Island, a prominent river island that served as a landmark and military post.

The region was originally inhabited by the Sauk and Meskwaki peoples, and it played a key role in the Black Hawk War of 1832. European-American settlement followed, with pioneers—primarily of English, German, and Irish descent—drawn to the fertile prairies and river access. The city of Rock Island, the county seat, became an important center for trade, rail transport, and military operations. In 1862, the U.S. government established the Rock Island Arsenal on Arsenal Island, which remains a major military installation. Early religious life included Protestant, Catholic, and Lutheran congregations. Governed under Illinois state law since its founding, Rock Island County played a major role in transportation and industry.

Cemeteries such as Chippiannock Cemetery preserve the county’s military and immigrant heritage.