ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. — Editor's note: The video above aired on May 21.
It's a big happy birthday to one of the Quad Cities' oldest establishments, as the Rock Island Arsenal turns 160 years old on Monday, July 11.
Some of the lesser-known historic areas are being celebrated through short videos. Kevin Braafladt, a historian at Army Sustainment Command, and Patrick Allie, director of the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, are creating these informational resources so the community can learn facts they may not already know.
Even before its official beginning in 1862, the Arsenal has played a vital part in defending our nation. It prides itself on its relationship with surrounding communities and will continue to provide gear, ammo and logistical support to military missions around the world.
For those wanting to learn more about the Arsenals' history, you can visit the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, which is expected to reopen in the fall once renovations are complete.