The history of Fulton, Illinois dates back to 1835, when its founder, John Baker, arrived and established the settlement along the Mississippi River. The city was named after Robert Fulton, whose innovations in steamboat technology helped transform river transportation across the United States during the early 19th century.

Fulton’s cultural heritage is closely tied to Dutch immigrants who later settled in the area and contributed greatly to the community’s development. To honor this heritage, the city constructed the authentic Dutch-style De Immigrant Windmill in 2000, which has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of Fulton’s connection to its Dutch roots.

The city has also been home to several notable figures. Among them is John R. Huizenga, a scientist who contributed to the development of nuclear research during the Manhattan Project. Fulton is also connected to the family of Ronald Reagan, as both of his parents were born in the area. Additionally, Paul Rhymer, the creator and writer of the classic radio show Vic and Sade, also hailed from Fulton.

Fulton played a meaningful role in American history as well. During the mid-1800s, the city was an active participant in the Underground Railroad, with local residents helping hide and assist freedom seekers as they traveled north toward safety. Today, this rich history, combined with its riverfront setting and strong cultural traditions, continues to shape Fulton’s identity as a community proud of its past and its heritage.

The Windmill: Called De Immigrant, this fully functional windmill stands nearly 100 feet tall in the center of town. It was built in the Netherlands and shipped piece by piece to the United States for assembly by Dutch millwrights. Visitors can experience this authentic windmill for free.

Heritage Canyon: Along this 12-acre wooded walk, visitors are transported back to the 1800s. Up until 1954, the canyon was a limestone quarry. It was shut down because of the dynamite damage to the community and the river. A general eyesore for Fulton for many years, it became privately-owned in 1967 and the couple Harold and Thelma Wierenga turned it into the walking history that it is today. They carefully added each building working hard not to disturb the natural surroundings. When they were done, there was a schoolhouse, a doctors office, a log cabin settlement, a blacksmith shop, a church and much more. In 1999, Harold passed and the canyon was given to the city to run and operate. Visitors still walk through the village to this day.

Windmill Cultural Center (WCC): The center is home to 22 windmill replicas, which range in size, but are up to six feet tall. They are from ten European countries including Belgium, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Portugal and The Netherlands. The collection was designed by windmill enthusiasts Henk and June Hielema of DeMotte, Indiana. There is also a lovely gift shop attached to the center.

Andresen Nature Center: Located next to Heritage Canyon, the nature center displays wildlife and plants from the Mississippi watershed to encourage appreciation of the area’s natural resources.

• City of Fulton
• Dutch Days
• Windmill Cultural Center (WCC)
• Heritage Canyon
• Andresen Nature Center