A new view of an Oregon icon

A new view of an Oregon icon

Visitors viewing The Eternal Indian at Lowden State Park enjoy an up-close experience of the nearly 50-foot-tall statue, a tribute to Native Americans and Black Hawk. From its perch atop a 125-foot bluff along the Rock River, the view from the statue across to Illinois 2 resembles a miniature village.

Illinois 2 travelers taking a break from their journeys and stopping at a scenic turnout to view the statue see him just as small. But a new viewer purchased by an area organization and installed by IDOT's District 2 hopes to bring a better view of the statue, eagles and other wildlife.

"Whenever I drive by, I see there's motorcyclists and cars pulled over that are just looking because it's so beautiful and picturesque," says Liz Hiemstra, executive director of the Ogle County Economic Development Corporation. "To be able to see more of that stuff up close is going to be awesome for people."

The dual ADA-compliant viewer was the final act by Oregon Together, which included Hiemstra as a member. Created by a group of volunteers through the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs MAPPING program, the nonprofit organization explored ways to improve the community. Several committees were formed to explore the arts, downtown, tourism and the riverfront. Much progress was made during their existence as they worked to beautify the town and foster more activity to bring tourists to Oregon.

However, the Rock River and The Eternal Indian were Oregon's biggest draws, the latter emblazoned on the city's welcome sign. When the Illinois Department of Natural Resources was planning to renovate the statue, Oregon Together coordinated with state and local organizations, along with businesses and private citizens to raise funds for the project. The Illinois Conservation Foundation recognized the group for their efforts, said Cheryl Bunton, past president of Oregon Together.

The organization decided to disband in 2024, but wanted to give something back to the community beyond their previous accomplishments. Bunton contacted IDOT's District 2 about two years ago and offered to buy the viewer if IDOT would install it. IDOT agreed and after extensive planning and negotiations between the groups, work began in late May.

"We're very pleased to have worked with Oregon Together on this project that enhances this area for the public," said Region 2 Engineer Trisha Thompson.

Former member Melanie Cozzi, who is also an Oregon councilmember, says the viewer is a legacy to Oregon Together's work.

"This is something our communities and tourists can utilize. It just keeps getting back to this vision that we wanted to have of really admiring nature and bringing people together."

Day Labor, IDOT's in-house construction unit, installed the platform for the viewer in a section of the scenic turnout. A set of bollards also was installed to protect it from vehicles. The viewer went in last after the concrete was fully cured.

"We are really pleased that the state was willing to take on this project, because it is a small project and we are a small town," said Bunton. "Also, the cooperation between a local volunteer organization and the state of Illinois, that's fantastic."

The viewer also adds to an experience that brings many visitors to and through Oregon, which is not only home to The Eternal Indian and Lowden State Park, but also nearby Castle Rock and White Pines state parks.

"If you're driving, you get to take a break from your everyday and look at something peaceful and lovely," Hiemstra said.

View photo gallery of the project