Rockford

Nestled in one of natures beauty spots and spread out on both banks of Rock River, Rockford has grown and developed to become one of the principal cities of the state of Illinois and the Midwest. With its proliferation of trees, well-kept neighborhoods, and an extensive system of parks and museums, Rockford enjoys the distinction of being one of the most beautiful inland cities in America; it is also one of the states leading industrial cities. In pictorial format, this book presents the story of Rockford, The Forest City. It is a story of progress, creativity, and achievement, which encouraged immigrant entrepreneurs to develop large industries from their innovative ideas. The story of this city needs no embellishment, and it is documented here with the belief that it will lead to a better appreciation of what Rockford is and what Rockford is to be.

Don Swanson is a Rockford native and board member of the city's Midway Village Museum. The story of Rockford is alive today in the activities of the Midway Village Museum, and the city's traditions have been carefully preserved in the museum's artifacts, buildings, and exhibits that appear in this book.