Fulton is a quaint and charming community rich in heritage. Originally called Baker’s Ferry after the first settler in 1835, the town’s name was soon changed to Fulton in honor of the famed steamboat inventor, Robert Fulton. During the steam boating days, Fulton was a transfer and warehouse port between the upper and lower reaches of the Mississippi River. Fulton drew many nationalities of people but those from the Netherlands were especially drawn to it because of its position on the Mississippi and soon many Dutch families were living in the area.

Because of Fulton’s strong Dutch ancestry, the community celebrates its heritage the first weekend in May with the popular Dutch Days Festival. In addition to Fulton’s windmill and shopping district, the town also has an 1800s village house inside a rock quarry called Heritage Canyon. Heritage Canyon is dotted with buildings representing the 1800’s era – including an old school house, church, doctor’s office, printing press, and much more. Visitors are also encouraged to visit the Martin House Museum. This Civil War era home was donated to the city and now is home to the Fulton Historical Society. The home houses an extensive array of Fulton memorabilia and antiques.



For additional information:
Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau
201 North Franklin Avenue
Polo, IL 61046
800-678-2108
www.bwcvb.com

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