History Publications

The ASC History Office (and its predecessor command history offices) have composed an abridged illustrated history that tells the story of Rock Island Arsenal and the modern Arsenal Island. This story begins at the first contact of Europeans with the natives in the region and runs all the way until just before the Korean War.

The Illustrated History draws upon the numerous documents that the ASC History Office oversees to compose its narrative. These include the biography of Black Hawk, reports of land sales, diaries from the Rock Island Prison Barracks, accounts from the third arsenal commander, and so many more.

Published in the interest of the Rock Island Arsenal Employees. The Arsenal Record originally ran during the first half of the 20th century, these editions are made available here for public review. Click on the button to the left to be taken to the archive listing for this publication.

The History Newsletter is a monthly publication that covers significant military history topics. Special Editions occasionally are produced focusing on key subject matter of significance to current events. In addition to historical articles, the newsletter includes monthly trivia, archive spotlight, and did-you-know factoids. It is published each month and is a proponent of the ASC History Office.

Check out the current & past editions on DVIDS »
Go to the ASC History Office Page »

Since its inception, the Army Materiel Command (AMC) has been an ever-present entity at Rock Island Arsenal through subordinate commands. This began with Weapons Command (WECOM) when AMC was established. Since that time, it has grown to envelop a large portion of what makes Rock Island Arsenal what it is today. There is no audio for this presentation. The material was researched in a concerted effort by the ASC History Office.

Since two armies found themselves on the battlefield facing off against each other, there has been a need to supply that army. Men require materiel to make them a legitimate and effective fighting force. In this presentation of information, the history office examined the evolution of military logistics from Napoleon's Army to the present. There is no audio for this presentation. The material was researched in a concerted effort by the ASC History Office.