Apparently a local car shop owner intentionally stranded a 2001 Volvo S80 on a tiny “island” as a publicity stunt in 2012. It’s still there & shows up on Google Maps as “Volvo Island” (Ottawa, Illinois)
Title: Volvo Island, Illinois: The Bizarre Story of an Abandoned Car Turned Roadside Landmark
Meta Description: Discover the strange tale of “Volvo Island” in Ottawa, Illinois—a 2001 Volvo S80 stranded on a tiny river island as a publicity stunt. Still visible on Google Maps, this quirky landmark draws curious explorers.
The Unlikely Tale of Volvo Island: Ottawa, Illinois’ Strangest Landmark
Nestled in the Illinois River near Ottawa, Illinois, lies one of America’s most bizarre roadside attractions: a rusting 2001 Volvo S80 marooned on a tiny patch of land dubbed “Volvo Island.” What began as a local mechanic’s publicity stunt in 2012 has become an enduring oddity, captivating Google Maps users and road-trippers alike. Here’s the story behind this rusted automotive island and how it became an accidental tourist magnet.
How a Volvo Ended Up on an Island: The Publicity Stunt That Stuck
In 2012, John Gieseke, owner of Gieseke Auto Body in Ottawa, hatched an unconventional plan to promote his shop. He bought a totaled 2001 Volvo S80, painted “GIESEKE AUTO BODY” in bold letters on its side, and used a barge to strand it atop a small, muddy islet in the Illinois River.
His goal? To create a humorous, eye-catching advertisement visible to boaters and riverside drivers. The stunt worked—but not in the way he expected. Locals dubbed the site “Volvo Island,” and instead of fading into obscurity, the car became a permanent fixture of the landscape. Over a decade later, it remains perched on its tiny island, even as nature slowly reclaims it.
Why Is Volvo Island Still There?
Despite its dilapidated state, the Volvo has outlasted expectations:
- Resilience Against the Elements: The car’s positioning shields it from strong currents, though rust and weather have stripped its paint and collapsed its roof.
- No Removal Orders: Surprisingly, local authorities never demanded its removal, likely due to its remote location and lack of navigational hazards.
- Cultural Curiosity: Its fame grew organically, turning it into a beloved oddity. Locals and tourists began seeking it out, sharing photos online and reinforcing its status as a landmark.
Today, satellite images on Google Maps label the site “Volvo Island,” cementing its place in digital infamy.
How to Find Volvo Island (And Is It Worth the Trip?)
📍 Location: The island sits in the Illinois River, roughly 1.5 miles south of Ottawa’s downtown, near the intersection of IL-71 and Clinton Street.
🔍 Spotting It:
- By Boat/Kayak: The easiest way to see the car up close is by water. Local outfitters like Ottawa Kayak offer rentals for river excursions.
- By Land: Pull over near the IL-71 bridge (coordinates: 41°19’53.2″N 88°51’15.7″W) for a distant view. Binoculars help!
- Online: Type “Volvo Island, Ottawa IL” into Google Maps—the car appears as a tiny speck surrounded by water.
⚠️ Note: Respect the environment! The island is unstable, and approaching the car is discouraged (and likely muddy).
Why People Love This Quirky Landmark
While Gieseke Auto Body closed years ago, the Volvo lives on as a symbol of grassroots creativity. Fans appreciate:
- Unconventional Storytelling: A mechanic’s joke turned into a decade-long conversation piece.
- “Roadside America” Charm: It’s a low-tech oddity in an age of viral marketing, appealing to lovers of the unconventional.
- Photo Op: Snapping the Volvo (even from afar) is a badge of honor among explorers of Illinois’ hidden gems.
Volvo Island: More Than Just a Rusty Car
The Volvo S80’s journey from scrap heap to island dweller mirrors Ottawa’s own quirky character. Located near historic Starved Rock State Park and famed for hosting the first Lincoln-Douglas debate, Ottawa blends history with humorous surprises. Volvo Island adds a layer of modern folklore—a reminder that even failed stunts can leave lasting legacies.
Final Thought: Planning an Illinois road trip? Add Volvo Island to your itinerary for a dose of the unexpected. Just don’t expect a rescue mission for that Volvo—it’s right where it belongs, sparking smiles (and confusion) for years to come.
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