In the early part of 1894 an idea to build a lasting tribute to the early settlers of the Rock River Valley area was conceived. At the request of John L. Lord, President of the Lee County Old Settlers' Association at the time, members of the organization were asked to cut a tree growing on their property, initial it, and haul it to a site northeast of Dixon which was selected for the construction of what would become known as the "Old Settlers' Memorial Log Cabin."
The site of the cabin would be in what was known then as Lloyd's Park as it was decided the location would be an appropriate one because it was here that Indian Chief Black Hawk and his people once hunted and fished, and made one of the last struggles to retain possession of the beautiful Rock River country. It was to be situated on ground high over the nearby Rock River.
It was on March 4, 1969 that the Log Cabin was moved from its location of 75 years to its permanent home in Lincoln Statue Park. The great task of moving the cabin from its location over some two miles of city streets was accomplished in one day. It was moved fully intact, with the exception of the fireplace. Once the cabin was on-site the fireplace was reconstructed exactly as it had been at the old site.
On August 17, 1969 the Rededication of the Old Settlers' Memorial Log Cabin was held with an afternoon long program of events. Since then it has become a well known tourist stop and a constant reminder to all who visit of the proud heritage passed on by the early day pioneer and their families.
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