Eee aly Ue BONeB Ui ele bet sien 39 

Not only is Mr. Ridgway a distinguished ornithologist, but he is also 
well known for his researches in botany, as well as for his interest in the 
preservation of rare trees and other forms of plant life. 
The technicalities of his profession have never dulled his love of 
birds in nature; and when in later life he sought for some place where 
he might live on intimate terms with birds and trees and flowers, the 
memory of a happy boyhood drew him irresistibly to the scenes of his 
youth. 
After a thorough examination of available areas he purchased eighteen 
acres near Olney, Illinois, which fully met his desires. The ground is 

Photograph by Howard T. Middleton 
An Ecret’s PLEASANT REFLECTIONS 
varied in character and well watered; there are over fifty species of 
native trees, and a great variety of shrubs and flowers. These conditions 
offer a home to an equally rich bird life. 
This is Bird Haven. Purchased in 1906, for twenty years it has had 
the benefit of Mr. Ridgway’s constant thought and care. Animated by 
boundless love for his task he has used all his available means to develop 
this sanctuary, but the time has now come when he can no longer con- 
tinue this personal care. 
Mr. Ridgway is prepared to deed this sanctuary to an organization 
by which it will be preserved. Let us accept this gift, not only in the 
interest of the birds and plants of Bird Haven, but as a memorial to its 
Founder. Let us show, while Mr. Ridgway still lives, that we appreciate 
his unselfish life in the service of science. Let us build in Bird Haven 
a national monument to stimulate love for birds and for all outdoors, 
not only in the people of our own day but in generations yet unborn. 
In years to come this living memorial will increase in value and interest 
and will be a Mecca for those who love the life of the wild. 
