Tower Rock is an iconic landmark located on the banks of the Mississippi River, stretching some 6000 feet from Minnesota to Missouri. Located one mile south of Hastings, Minnesota, Tower Rock serves as a strategic location on the river, providing both access to a vibrant economy and a wide funnel of passing cargo boats. Tower Rock is composed of three elements, the North Bluff, the South Bluff and the main rock located between them. This boulder, estimated to be over 7,000 years old, is the only major exposed rock and can be seen from up to three miles away.
The town of Hastings is situated along the Mississippi River and is considered to be the birthplace of the United States’ steamboat industry. The river is a vital transportation route for tourists and travelers traversing the industrial corridor between Duluth and New Orleans. Tower Rock sits at the northernmost portion of the stretch, providing travelers and traders with a safe passage through the region. Its significance has been marked with a plaque from the United States Coast Guard and is maintained by the non-profit group ‘Friends of Tower Rock’.
From its inception in the late 1700s, Tower Rock has had an important role in the navigation of the Mississippi River. The point marked the halfway point for paddle wheelers and stern wheelers, and was used to determine the direction of boat traffic. The boulder stands some 57 feet out of the water and on some days, it serves as a marker of low water levels on the river. In 1855 when the river’s high level was only 5.5 feet, the top of the rock was visible, and this is what earned the point the nickname ‘High Water Mark’.
The rock is also seen as a symbol of survival, as it has stood firm against the weight of hundreds of boats which have collided with it. The rock even has the ability to change its size and shape to the flow of the great river, which causes erosion and the buildup of gravel around it. This resistance to the natural power of the river shows the inherent strength of Tower Rock.
Aside from its importance in navigation and trade, Tower Rock is a source of inspiration for its visitors. The scenery at the riverbank is breathtaking and you can often see people fishing and swimming in the waters. It’s a popular spot for photographers and nature-lovers who often come to take in the view. There’s also plenty of wildlife to be found, such as deer, beavers, and even bald eagles.
Geology and Formation of Tower Rock
Tower Rock is a large boulder made of quartzite and is part of the great St. Croix River Group which extends from the falls near Hastings, Minnesota to the mouth of the Mississippi in Louisiana. The rock is estimated to be 7,000 to 10,000 years old, making it one of the oldest geological features in Minnesota. The formation of the rock is believed to have started at the bottom of an ancient glacial lake approximately two to three million years ago. Over the years, the lake drained, leaving behind the boulder we see today.
Although there are many theories, it is unclear how the rock got its name. There are many tales of ‘pirates’, ‘outlaws’, and ‘explorers’ using Tower Rock as point of interest on their journeys. Regardless of the origin of the name, it is certain that this unique geological feature has played an important role in the history of the region.
Historical Impact of Tower Rock
Throughout its existence, Tower Rock has served as a reference point and served to identify intertribal boundary lines. It also served as an important area of conflict when the settlers first arrived to the region. In 1805, Thomas Jefferson and the world’s greatest river explorer Zebulon Pike negotiated the resolution of a land dispute among the Dakota, Ojibwe, and Sauk tribes which defined the boundary at Tower Rock. The rock then served as a navigational landmark for the military and settlers until the formation of towns along the riverbanks.
The importance of Tower Rock as a landmark stayed constant in spite of the changes that occurred around it. In the late 1800s it became a point of settlement for a small community called Tower Station. This settlement included a clubhouse for social events, stores, and even a school. However, a shift in the course of the river in 1987 caused the settlement to be abandoned and the river has since grown away from Tower Rock.
Today, the rock stands as a testament to the history of the region and its significance to travelers, traders and settlers. Its natural beauty also serves as inspiration for both visitors and residents in the area. The rock still serves as an indicator of the low levels of water in the river, and many have come to view the rock and take in its grandeur.
Protection and Conservation of Tower Rock
Friends of Tower Rock, the non-profit conservation group, has been responsible for the preservation of the historical landmark since the organization was formed in 1998. The group works with local, state, and federal entities to ensure the longevity of the site. This work consists of removing sediment from around the rock, restoring vegetation, and maintaining signage.
Friends of Tower Rock also holds educational events at the location to inform visitors about the history of the site. They provide visitors with a guided tour of the landmark and discuss the cultural and historical importance of Tower Rock. They also offer educational programs to teach children about the importance of preserving natural sites.
In March of 2019, Tower Rock was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This national listing will help protect the site from development and provide a unique opportunity to learn about its past. With the help of Friends of Tower Rock, the rock will stand as a symbol of both the people who navigated and settled the river, and of those that have preserved it over the years.
Recreational Activities at Tower Rock
Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities while visiting Tower Rock. Off the rock, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are popular activities as the area provides some of the best access to the Mississippi River in the state. The area around Tower Rock also offers stunning photographs opportunities for nature-lovers and photographers.
The ‘Tower Rock Trail’ is a short one-mile loop that starts at Tower Rock, bringing visitors to the site of the town of Tower Station before looping back. The trail is open year-round, though some areas become slightly more difficult to traverse in winter due to ice and snow.
Tower Rock also hosts special events throughout the year including the ‘Tower Rock Festival.’ This springtime event features live music, food vendors, and educational performances. The event serves to bring the community together and celebrate the significance of the historical landmark.
The Legacy of Tower Rock
Tower Rock stands as a symbol of both the strength and power of the natural world and of the human effort to preserve it. The rock stands as a testament to the importance of the Mississippi River and its contributions to the development of the region. For those that visit its site, the rock serves as a reminder of the importance of nature and conservation efforts. As a historical landmark, Tower Rock will remain for years to come, inspiring those who come to visit its majestic waters.
Economic Benefits of Tower Rock
Tower Rock serves as a major landmark for the economic prosperity of the region. The area is home to numerous small businesses ranging from tourist services and accommodations to agricultural businesses, seafood restaurants, and antique dealers. Some of the closest accommodations are located within ten miles of the rock, providing visitors with a unique look into the small town way of life.
Additionally, the presence of Tower Rock has enabled Hastings to become an important hub for steamboat tourism. Steamboat tours providing visitors with a glimpse into the history of the river and the area attract thousands of visitors from the US and abroad. Moreover, the proximity of Tower Rock to Hastings and other small towns has enabled the region to benefit economically from tourist activities.
The economic impact of Tower Rock extends beyond just tourism as well. The boulder has become a symbol of protection and hope for the towns along the river. In addition to its important role in navigation, the rock has become a source of inspiration for entrepreneurs, farms, and fishermen. Its presence is deeply intertwined with the local economy and has had a lasting impact on the development of the area.
Environmental Protection of Tower Rock
The importance of Tower Rock in regards to its environmental impact must not be underestimated. Tower Rock has remained intact despite the millennia of erosion along the banks of the Mississippi River. The environmental stability of the rock serves to reduce the negative impact of climate change by providing a buffer zone against changing water levels, storms, floods, and droughts.
In addition to reducing the effects of climate change, Tower Rock and the surrounding area also works to provide a habitat for numerous species of birds and aquatic life. Bald eagles, kingfishers and blue herons, can be seen flying overhead, and the area is home to various species of fish and amphibians. The presence of these animals is a testament to the environment of Tower Rock which provides them with the space and resources necessary for survival.
Furthermore, the ‘Friends of Tower Rock’ organization also plays an important role in protecting the environment of the landmark and the wildlife which call it home. The non-profit group works to ensure the longevity of the site, educating visitors about its history and significance, while also working to maintain and protect the natural beauty of the area. By doing so they are able to ensure the sustainability of this unique ecosystem.
