North Fork Catfish Creek

General Ulysses S. Grant was born in Ohio but he and his family lived in many different towns throughout his life including Galena, Illinois.

The family was living in Galena and Grant was working in his father's leather goods store right before the Civil War broke out. Grant rejoined the army - long story - and went on to greatness.

The General looked upon Galena as his adopted hometown and after the war the town presented him and his family with a newly built and completely furnished home as a thank you for his war service.

Denny and I toured the home today. And then spent some time in Grant Park and walked across the Galena River. We found a neat Italian restaurant in the historic section of town.

We crossed back into Iowa - Dubuque - 'cause that's where our hotel is located - another long story. The Mississippi River is looking quite high.Read more