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mon in the area, such as poplars and silver-leaf maples. A large growth 
sprang up, soon covering the barren banks. 
A number of people recall the engineer in charge of the entire project, 
Major William Long of Alabama, who brought his charming family to live 
in Princeton for the “duration.” Mr. Long had been a major in the regular 
army. He brought with him a colored valet, who later brought his own son, 
who still lives in Princeton. 
Authorities estimate that the upkeep of the Canal as a park would cost 
$75,000 per year, although I imagine part of this might be met by the rentals 
collected for houses and grounds on the shoreline. In addition to the chain 
of little lakes which is what the Canal has become, there are many ponds and 
marshes outside the banks, caused from seepage and overflow. These are 
sanctuaries for resident marsh-dwelling birds, as well as great numbers of 
migratory birds. Many of our little wild animals, so relentlessly pursued, 
also have taken refuge here. 
Writing the story of the Hennepin Canal has not proved to be easy, for 
the subject is rich in color and legend, and would make a splendid book. 
Actually preserving the area will not be easy either, for there are still many 
obstacles to be overcome. Action, in the form of publicity and letters to 
Congress, is needed before the dream of a strip of parklike waterway 
across our state becomes a reality. 
404 N. Church St., Princeton, Ill. 
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New Forest Preserve in Illinois 
THE ILLINOIS AUDUBON SOCIETY recently sent a letter of commendation to 
Mr. Joseph Myer, 1009 S. Main Street, Princeton, for his donation of 30 
acres of wooded land in Dover township to the Princeton Park District for 
use as a forest and wildlife preserve. By this means, a stand of native timber 
typical of Bureau county will be kept in its natural state for the enjoyment 
of future generations. 
The donation specifies that the land is not to be used for hunting, trap- 
ping, grazing or picnicking. Trails are to be laid out for bird watchers, Boy 
Scouts, Campfire Girls, Girl Scouts, and other groups wishing to study 
nature. The area will be protected as a bird and game refuge. In the last 
few months, Mr. Myer also has donated a smaller tract to the Park District 
for use as a camp site and picnic ground. It is refreshing to know that some 
of the best examples of northern Illinois timberlands will thus be kept in 
their original state. 
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GOVERNOR STRATTON approved a special appropriation this summer to buy 
more land for Illinois Beach State Park. A recommendation was also made 
that a naturalist be employed to protect the nature area. 
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