Fulton Journal
June 27, 1884
The excursion on the Josephine to Rock Island Wednesday was a success. About one hundred and fifty were aboard. The barge Billy was taken as far as Port Byron, and was utilized for dancing and roller skating. The Walter family furnished excellent music. The weather was just the right temperature till ten o'clock in the evening, when it became a little chlly for some. At ten o'clock the lunch baskets were opened, their contents spread on the tables, and the picnic dinner enjoyed. The boat arrived at Rock Island at noon, and the party separated. Some went to Davenport, some to the arsenal on Rock Island and about sixty took the motor train to Black Hawk's Watch Tower. The Tower is about four miles from Rock Island. It is 250 feet above the level and to the southeast, south and southwest you can see for many miles. It is a splendid place to camp, rest and recuperate during the summer. The boat left Rock Island at 4:30 o'clock and did not reach Fulton till nearly one o'clock. Credit is due the managers of the excursion. Captain Conger, M.P. Fulton, clerk, as well as all the officers and crew did everything to make the trip pleasant.
