Cave-In-Rock: Ohio River Pirate and Bandit Hideout - Southern Illinois State Park

Cave-In-Rock is a 55 foot wide cave that was carved out of limestone rock by water thousands of years ago. This cave sits on the Bank of the Ohio River in southern Illinois, just across the river from Kentucky and was first discovered in 1739 by French explorers. By the 1790’s this became a hide out for river pirates, bandits, murders and fugitives. Samuel Mason and James Ford, Isaiah L. Potts, America's first serial killers the Harpe brothers and counterfeiters all used this cave as a villain lair. It's even rumored that Jesse James once visited this cave. I love history and I get out and go find it every week! I have found some amazing history just by getting out and exploring! I try to pronounce everything properly. I really do try, so please forgive me if I don't pronounce something properly. :) Be Nice! #cave #pirates #river #statepark #hideout