Wildlife Photograph

Smokies/Ijams mark anniversaries

Saturday December 12, 2009
National park celebrates 75 years, Ijams 100

 
On Sept. 2, Sally Judiscak, Development Officer and Ijams Board Member, Jim Richards and I attended the re-dedication of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) as part of its 75th anniversary. The event was a tribute to all those that gave their land and worked diligently to develop a national park here in East Tennessee.

The re-dedication made me think even more profoundly about the Ijams park right here in Knoxville. Although Ijams’ 175-acre wildlife sanctuary may not have national park status, it is beloved just the same by thousands of locals who enjoy the beauty of natural landscapes only minutes from home. And yet the origins of Ijams pre-date even the GSMNP.

Next year, Ijams Nature Center will celebrate its 100th anniversary, for it was back in 1910 when H.P. and Alice Ijams first purchased the original 20-acre property here on Island Home Avenue. Considering the adjacent marble quarry, with its frequent blastings and smokestacks, it was truly a visionary purchase.   

Over the course of a century, the Ijams property evolved into a mature bird sanctuary before becoming a public nature park for all people. It continues to be enjoyed by Boy and Girl Scouts, hikers, ornithologists and everyday folk who enjoy discovering native wildlife, learning about ecosystems and environmental issues, or simply taking a quiet walk in the woods.

There will be many opportunities to learn more about the Ijams family and their unique ties to the region, including the Knoxville Garden Club and Girl Scout movements, the creation of the first camp settlement on Mt. LeConte, and the history of ornithology in Knoxville, through a series of special programs and events.

Plus, Ijams will publish a special book of vintage photographs as part of the "Images of America" series by Arcadia Publishing. Look out for a special book release party in the spring.

Meanwhile, you can celebrate the upcoming year with us by purchasing a full-color 2010 anniversary calendar featuring photographs of the Ijams family and contemporary wildlife shots. Calendars are available at the Visitor Center for $15 or online at www.ijams.org for $17.50 (inc. S&H).

As always, thank you for being a member and helping build a foundation of support for the next 100 years.

- By Paul James, Executive Director
 

Back To News Releases