The Beginning - How this all got started
In 1987, Scott Verbeckmoes while in Michigan saw a similar but smaller event and thought it would be a good idea to have one in Port Byron, it was a hard sell for the people of Illinois and Iowa to get it off the ground, but these original committee members succeeded:
Co- Chairmans Keith Speckman and Chas. “Boots” Knapp
Denise Bowers
Kathy Augsbuger
Patty
Kemp
Connie Eckermann
Ciel Abbott
Fred & Lavern Walbusser
Frank and Sandy James
The original rope used up until its retirement in 2006 was purchased from Trever’s True Value, Port Byron, IL in 4 separate coils of 600’ each. Jerry Oppendike spliced the ropes together for the 2400 feet needed to cross the river. Don Johnson and Harry Cort from Iowa Illinois Gas and Electric put the rope on the reel and for several years helped put the rope across the river. Jerry Lancaster was the first announcer of the event. First Queen contest winner was Heidi Drummond. The first year was also still called Hobo days and the first tug was straight up Cherry Street from the docks. The Alabaster Eagle is a traveling trophy that was originally purchased by Betty and Boots Knapp from Kliems in Bettendorf, Iowa. Keith Speckman made the showcase the following year. These were the first, but the continued success is due to all of the volunteers who have come and gone over the years and a huge Thank you should be given to all who have participated in this great event.
