Raggedy Ann

We set our sites Arcola, IL about 150 miles south of Chicago, IL. Arcola is the beginning of Amish Country, Illinois. We found little difficulty finding the Amish community. There are more buggies on the roads than cars. The Amish settlement began at about Tuscola on the north-east of Sullivan to the southwest, about 400 square miles. This has been a larger settlement than in Michigan or Indiana. Traveling on back roads is an adventure. We found a store called Family Health Foods, which has conducted a wide variety of dietary supplements and homeopathic remedies that most major food stores in major metropolitan areas. There is an Amish Interpretive Center in downtown Arcola, during which you can learn more about their religion and their way of life. We visited Menon-Hof in Shipshewana, Ind., then we have spent on it.

While you're in downtown Arcola Raggedy Ann to stop and Andy Museum and gift shop. These adorable dolls have been developed by Native Son Johnny Gruelle in 1918 after the loss of her thirteen year old daughter. He wanted to do something cute and cuddly for children to adopt. Also downtown is the train depot along the Illinois Central tracks. Built in 1886, it now houses the Visitor Welcome Center filled with memories of the station, with an extensive collection and brush tribute to Raggedy Ann. The staff is very helpful and has many attractions in the region, especially if you're interested in learning about the Amish.

A few miles west of the city is a jewel of an attraction, Rockome Gardens. This is designed for family fun. Admission is free, but be ready to separate you from your quarters to feed the goats, chickens, deer, ponies and other animals. Adults can also find ways to leave their money behind the many craft and gift shops in the park. Some cool things there include houses made of soda bottles (usually 7-Up or Fresca). They are joined by mortar. There are also many decorative stone fences, some with mythological motifs. For railway enthusiasts, the outdoor model railroad, at least 4,000 square feet, is very impressive. There are boardwalks, even if you can walk on the inside of the dish. Rockome Gardens appeals to the child in all of us.