The Wagon Wheel Resort: A Tale of Growth and Grandeur

Stateline Buzz

Posted On: May 12, 2024

Stateline Buzz

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In the quaint town of Rockton, Illinois, a humble beginning marked the start of what would become the illustrious Wagon Wheel Resort. Founded in 1936 by Walt Williamson, the resort started as a modest seven-stool hamburger stand and filling station, with Gladys Burgis among its first employees. Little did they know, this small venture would blossom into one of the Midwest's premier resorts, captivating the hearts of many for decades to come.

As the years passed, the Wagon Wheel Resort underwent significant expansions and enhancements. By 1950, the resort boasted 55 rooms and four apartments, spanning five wings and the main lodge area. Its growth was a testament to its popularity, serving as a hub between Belvidere, Freeport, Rockford, and Rockton, especially during World War II when tire and gas rationing made it a vital stop for travelers.

One of the most notable additions to the resort was the Red Barn Golf Course, constructed in the 1950s, complemented by a picturesque little lake. The resort's facilities continued to expand, featuring an air strip, laundry facilities, pig pens, and even a sawmill across its sprawling 314 acres.

Entertainment was a key focus of the Wagon Wheel experience. The Wagon Wheel Theater, which began with performances in tents, eventually transitioned into a permanent structure in 1955. Its grand opening in 1956 was a spectacle, drawing 412 attendees with ticket prices at $2.25. The theater became a cultural hotspot, hosting various performances and events that attracted guests from far and wide.

The resort's culinary offerings were equally impressive. The Candy Kitchen, known for its hand-dipped chocolates and signature peppermint candy stripes, was a sweet haven for guests. Employees crafted seven-pound Easter eggs, which, though pricey at $15 each, were a popular treat. Additionally, the resort's Cock and Bull Lounge became a favorite hangout spot, with 16 years' worth of business cards adorning its ceiling.

Celebrities were no strangers to the Wagon Wheel Resort. The likes of Bob Hope, Ronald Reagan, and Jack Nicklaus graced its grounds, leaving behind a legacy of glamour and prestige. The resort's charm and allure were further accentuated by its festive decorations during the holiday seasons, adding a touch of magic to the already enchanting atmosphere.

However, like all good things, the heyday of the Wagon Wheel Resort eventually came to an end. In 1989, after years of neglect and declining popularity, the resort closed its doors, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate the hearts of those who remember its grandeur.

Today, remnants of the Wagon Wheel Resort stand as reminders of its storied past. The Church by the Side of the Road, the Old Stone School (now a pre-school), and the Red Barn Golf Course serve as echoes of a bygone era, reminding us of the grandeur and splendor that once graced Rockton's landscape. The Wagon Wheel Resort may have closed its doors, but its memory lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to experience its magic.