The American Eagle is made of Douglas fir trees and was painted by hand, Six Flags said. Construction began in June 1980, and there were rumors about what the park — then Marriott's Great America — was constructing until it opened in October of the same year, Six Flags said.

Preparing to open for its 45th season of operation, an iconic coaster at Six Flags Great America has earned a new title ahead of the upcoming season.

American Coaster Enthusiasts has announced that American Eagle, the classic wooden racing coaster at Six Flags Great America in north suburban Gurnee, will be recognized as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark this year.