92 THE FOREST PRESERVES 



Within the 2,000 acres now owned by the district there are 

 the ruins of two French forts, giving evidence of the martial 

 spirit that once prevailed in these forests. Both of these his- 

 torical landmarks are destined for restoration and the marks 

 that will point them out to posterity. 



One of these demolished forts, the traces of which time has 

 almost removed, is located on the edge of that beautiful Lady's 

 Lane drive through the soul-stirring timber. It was there 

 that one of the bloodiest battles between the French and the 

 Indians was staged. 



Stones that were sunken into the ground as a foundation 

 for the superstructure still rest there. Preliminary excava- 

 tions, which have been made in the neighborhood, have led 

 many to believe that valuable relics of that almost pre-historic 

 age might be obtained by a systematic search. 



Unfortunately, the other fort site has in years past been 

 converted into a barnyard and much that might have been 

 found of great historical interest has been obliterated. How- 

 ever, it will still be possible to definitely locate the site and a 

 suitable building to commemorate its associations will be 

 erected. 



Then in the hills is found the further traces of the mound- 

 building Indians. Scientists have been prone to quarrel over 

 the authenticity of the different types of Indians' mounds dis- 

 covered in this region, but nevertheless there is evidence suf- 

 ficient to convince the layman. 



"AND HERE, AMID THE SILENT MAJESTY OF THESE DEEP WOODS. 



