Items of Interest January 13, 1917 Issue

Items of Interest

By the formation of the National Dunes Park Association the first steps have been taken toward preserving a part of the thirty mile stretch of virgin wilderness at the foot of Lake Michigan for a national park. The association has bound itself to acquire and hold some part of the stretch of dunes between Gary and Michigan City, and to ward off encroaching industries. The United States Senate passed by unanimous vote a resolution instructing Secretary of the Interior Lane to report as to the advisability of converting this tract into a national park.

Jens Jensen, the Chicago park director, says of it: "The wonderful development of Gary will soon encroach upon this beautiful region. It is true that there are no lofty mountains here, not even the giant forests of the West, yet the beauty is here, and here are found the rare things of the entire continent. The fact that people come from foreign lands to this spot to observe the interesting vegetation and formations is sufficient tribute to the Indiana dunes. The dunes are the theme of authors, poets, and painters. They encourage a love for the soil, the thing that has made great nations of the European countries. Let us save them, and save them now while we have the opportunity."

A former mayor of Gary has proved the leader in arousing genuine enthusiasm for the project. Describing the region, some one says: "The wandering dunes are constantly on the move. Shimmering veils of powdered sand sweep over the gleaming mounds and drop gently to the lee side. Soft clouds swirl to the summits and day by day subdue the junipers and oaks and pines that struggle so bravely for their existence. Strange forms are fashioned in the passing of the years. Bold fortresses are slowly reared. Grim turrets are outlined against the sky. The bird and animal life of the dunes is always interesting. Even one who is a novice as a naturalist can read what is written on the sands by the prowlers of the night. Here a sly raccoon has moved cautiously along. Farther down a couple of muskrats have been prowling, but have scampered back at the approach of a fox. Down along the beach the herons stalk in silent dignity. Balanced on set wings, the gulls hang aloft, while the more venturous terns skim along the wave crests."

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

Items of Interest

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access