Mark Walczynski

Starved Rock State Park: the First 100 Years Mark Walczynski

What does Starved Rock State Park have to do with the allied invasion of Germany during World War II? Where were dance lovers forbidden to do the "shimmy' and 'tickle toe?" Where was one of the most complete and up-to-date camping grounds in America during the 1920's? What famous park was described as both a playground and a schoolroom? From model T's to modern automobiles, from antiquated river ferries to modern-day tour boats, and from primitive camp sites to a luxury lodge, Starved Rock State Park, the First One-Hundred Years traces the development of the famous park from its early beginnings to today's twenty-first century world. From 75,000 visitors in 1912 to over two-million annually today, Starved Rock State Park is still a wonderful place to see native Illinois at its best. The book also includes a look at park legends, both famous and infamous and a look at the ongoing concerns over protection of the natural resources, public use, and commercial profit. Starved Rock State Park, the First One-Hundred Years is a window to the past from which we can plan the future.