The History of Rockome Gardens
Rockome Gardens was a popular tourist attraction in rural Illinois. The gardens were founded in 1929 by Arthur and Elizabeth Martin, who built their home and gardens in the heart of Illinois Amish country. Rockome Gardens became a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who came to enjoy the beautiful gardens and the unique Amish culture.
The Amish Culture
The Amish are a religious community known for their simple way of life, traditional dress, and rejection of modern technology. The Martin family was part of this community and built Rockome Gardens as a way to share their way of life with others. The gardens were filled with traditional Amish buildings, including a schoolhouse, barn, and blacksmith shop. Visitors could watch demonstrations of traditional crafts and enjoy homemade Amish cooking.
The Expansion of Rockome Gardens
Over the years, Rockome Gardens expanded to include a variety of attractions, including an amusement park, petting zoo, and miniature golf course. The gardens remained the centerpiece of the park, with beautiful flowers, water features, and even an old-fashioned gazebo. The Martin family continued to run the park until the 1970s when they sold it to new owners.
The Decline of Rockome Gardens
Changing Attitudes towards Amish Culture
As time went on, attitudes towards the Amish culture began to change. What was once seen as quaint and charming began to be seen as backward and outdated. Visitors to Rockome Gardens became less interested in Amish culture and more interested in modern attractions.
Competition from Other Parks
Rockome Gardens faced increasing competition from other parks and attractions in the area. Newer, flashier parks began to draw visitors away from Rockome Gardens, and the park struggled to stay relevant.
Mismanagement
Finally, poor management was the nail in the coffin for Rockome Gardens. The park was poorly maintained, and the attractions were outdated and in disrepair. Visitors stopped coming, and the park was no longer profitable. In 2005, Rockome Gardens closed its doors for good.
The Legacy of Rockome Gardens
Although Rockome Gardens is no longer open, its legacy lives on. The park was a beloved part of the local community, and many people have fond memories of visiting the gardens as children. Today, the site of Rockome Gardens is being developed into a new housing development, but the memory of the park and the Amish culture it celebrated lives on.
The Importance of Preserving History
The story of Rockome Gardens serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving history. The park was a unique and special place that celebrated a way of life that is fast disappearing. Although the park is gone, its legacy lives on, reminding us of the value of our cultural heritage.
The Value of Traditional Crafts
Rockome Gardens was also a place where traditional crafts were celebrated and preserved. Visitors could watch demonstrations of blacksmithing, quilting, and woodworking, and take home handmade souvenirs. Today, there is a renewed interest in these traditional crafts, and many people are learning these skills and passing them on to future generations.
Conclusion
Rockome Gardens was a unique and special place that celebrated the Amish culture and traditional crafts. Although the park is no longer open, its legacy lives on, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. The story of Rockome Gardens serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of changing attitudes, competition from other parks, and poor management. It also serves as a reminder of the value of preserving history and traditional crafts.