“Hummingbird migration in this area is at its peak in August. A large number of hummingbirds stop here on their journey south to Mexico and Central America. During this time, you can see up to 200 hummingbirds in a single day.  The festival is an opportunity to be a part of this awesome event.” — NS Interpreter Aviva Yasgu

Migrating hummingbirds feed at Nature Ststion

Team up with Nature Station staff to learn more about these amazing little birds and to help them survive their long migration. Highlights of the weekend include hummingbird banding demonstrations, a nature photography demonstration, a native plant sale, “hummingbird friendly” coffee sampling, activities and games for children, and live animal programs. Take-home information will be available about gardening, bird feeding, nature-friendly cleaning products, and more.  Bring a camera to capture the stars of the weekend, the Ruby-throated humm

ingbirds.

Bill Hilton Jr., Director of Hilton Pond Center of Piedmont Natural History and Operation RubyThroat, will give presentations throughout the day about the behavior and migration of the Ruby-throated hummingbird. He also will give up close demonstrations on how leg bands are attached. Banding is a way of identifying and tracking individual birds. If a hummingbird is recaptured at another study site along its migration route, the leg band number is recorded and added to a database.  Biologists can then look at all the data collected over the years for clues about the habits of these tiny birds and how to best meet their habitat needs.

Other weekend activities include two special programs on Friday, August 6, that require reservations and full deposits due to limited space.  For complete information or reservations, contact 270-924-2020.  The following is a complete list of NS activities for the weekend:

Friday, August 6
Operation RubyThroat: GLOBE Hummingbird Project Training Workshop
9 a.m.-3 p.m., $10 per person (includes light snacks)
Dinner with the Hummingbirds
6-8pm, $15 per person (includes dinner and evening admission)

Saturday, August 7
Hummingbird Banding Demonstrations~~Ongoing from 9am-4pm
10:30am        Hummingbirds of the World
11:30am         Live Owl Program
1pm                Helpful Honeybees
2pm                Lunchtime with Opossum
3pm                Backyard Butterflies

Sunday, August 8
Hummingbird Banding Demonstrations~~Ongoing from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
11:30am        Migration Miracles
1pm                Lunchtime with Groundhog
2:30pm          Flight of the Monarch Butterfly
3:30pm          Red Wolf Program

The main Hummingbird Festival runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on both days.  Admission to Hummingbird Festival 2010 is $5 ages 13 and up and $3 ages 5-12.

Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education.  Additional LBL information is also available on our website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.

The Kleeman Community Center will also hold a Senior Dance Saturday, August 21 from 3-5  p.m.   The event will feature a DJ and refreshments.  Admission is $2 at the door.

For more information on Senior events and programs, please visit us online at www.cityofclarksville.com or call 931-645-7476.

Lighting Up the Cumberland 2010

Cumberland City once again gave the tri-county community a grand show to mark the Fourth of July holiday. People came from all of the surrounding counties and communities to participate in the day’s festivities. Starting with a tractor parade opening the day-long celebration to the grand finale fireworks show, warmth and welcome were the watchwords of the day. Law enforcement personnel were courteous in directing traffic and pedestrians to their desired destinations. All primary roads were closed to vehicular traffic for the festival. The car and motorcycle show drew a strong crowd. The town center was filled with vendor booths offering an assortment of delights and wonders. Refreshments of drink and carnival eats were on ready hand to sate all appetites. The young and young-at-heart could find arts and crafts, petting animals fair and carnival rides.

The real draw of the day was the grand finale, the theme of the celebration, Cumberland City’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show. Lighting Up the Cumberland has become ‘The’ must see event for Western Montgomery County, Houston County and Stewart County alike. What began as Thunder on the Cumberland is now commonly known as the fireworks show that surprises and delights all ages. This year’s production of Lighting Up the Cumberland maintained the tradition established with its inception as Thunder On the Cumberland, namely that no government funds were used to pay for the fireworks show. Citizens came together and raised the necessary monies on their own over the year to pay for this annual community showcase. Visitors were everywhere and anywhere  that afforded a clear view of river and the fiery delights that were to come. Parked along side State Route 149, State Route 46 and anywhere in between, lawn chairs and digital cameras were at  the ready, awaiting the big show.

Triple burst illumination at 'Lighting Up the Cumberland!'

This writer/photographer and Business Clarksville’s editor, Christine Piesyk were the guests of Captain Ritchie’s good graces on the ferry moored at Cumberland City from which these photos were taken. We wish to thank Captain Ritchie for the courtesy he extended us and we look forward to joining him again next year. We tip our hats to Cumberland  City for its annual gift to all who would venture across the Cumberland River to visit with them for the holiday weekend fest. Thank you and well done!

All photos by Turner McCullough Jr.

While some might frown on the idea of celebrating the country’s 234th birthday a day early, it’s not unheard of. In fact, John Adams, the first American Vice President, declared that we should always celebrate our independence with “pomp and circumstance” — on July 3rd. And celebrate, the city did.

The City of Clarksville sponsored the night’s festivities along with several other sponsors: The Leaf-Chronicle, Clarksville Family Magazine, Clarksville Now, the Five-Star Radio Group, Cumberland Bank & Trust, Aetna Insurance, US Bank, Fort Campbell Credit Union, Planters Bank, Lamar Advertising, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville’s Best Buys, and Ingram Materials.

Business & Heritage Clarksville is pleased to present this gallery and video of tonight’s festivities.

Photos and video by David W. Shelton

The funding is included in the state’s budget for capital projects and will pay for research, design and development of new exhibits for Dunbar Cave.

As the upgrades are completed, the re-visioned center will focus in part on occupation of the cave by ancient humans. A projectile point dating back 10,000 years to the Paleo-Indian culture was discovered near the cave entrance.

Ancient Native American cave art was discovered in Dunbar Cave on January 15, 2005 by Larry E. Matthews, Amy Wallace, Joe Douglas, and Billyfrank Morrison.  more than 30 cave drawings dating back 12,000 years to the Mississippian Era, were discovered. The discovery was not disclosed until a new, bat friendly gate had been constructed to protect the cave and this significant discovery.  Dr. Jan Simek from the University of TN described and discussed the find during a public ceremony  on July 29, 2006.

Jan Simek and his research team continue to study and document the cave art.  The find is significant in that North American cave art is rare and important to the understanding of ancient Native American cultures. The story of the cave’s natural historic and its “historic and prehistoric human use of the site” will be showcased in the new center.

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation spokesman Tisha Calabrese-Benton said that while local park rangers would be involved, her agency would direct the project, developing exhibits and dispersing funding for the work on an ongoing basis. The design phase of the project will take approximately one year.

Park officials and the Friends of Dunbar Cave had hoped to see this project launch in 2006, but at that time funding for the project was cut from the state budget. David and Debbie Boen, longtime supporters of Dunbar Cave who recently relocated to Wisconsin, were “thrilled” to learn of the center  funding.

David Boen, a past president of the Friends of Dunbar cave,  had “some small part” in working for this funding. Boen extended his congratulations to all the Friends of Dunbar Cave members for their tireless efforts.

A few years ago County Commissioner Keith Politi contacted David to see if there were any local projects in his district that the Montgomery County Legislative Liason Committee could endorse. Boen met with  Politi and convinced him that Dunbar Cave was an ongoing worthy cause.   Since then Boen attended two meetings a year, presenting to the Legislative Liason Committee planning meetings and to State Representatives.  Ronnie Hunter represented Dunbar Cave at the last of these meetings.

Boen thanks all those who added their support at these meetings: Ron Hunter, Suva Bastin, Barbara Wilbur and Jerry Clark.  Jerry Clark and others contributed to this effort through their outspokenness in this cause.

“This victory represents a lot of previous effort,” Boen said, adding additional kudos to  Politi and County Mayor Carolyn Bowers.

Working to secure the project were Representatives Joe Pitts, Curtis Johnson, and Phillip Johnson,  Sen. Tim Barnes and Montgomery County Mayor Carolyn Bowers and the Montgomery County Commission’s Legislative Liaison.

"Yep, the Junebugs are here!"

Sighted yesterday mid-morning at a downtown bank branch drive-thru, the first Junebugs of the summer were cavorting on a cluster of bright yellow Hibiscus blossoms. There can be no doubt now. Summer has officially made its way here. Junebugs are here. There’s no stopping it now.

Archivists will be at the Montgomery County Archives, 350 Pageant Lane in Clarksville, Suite 101D, from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. that day. During that time, they invite area residents to bring in photographs, documents and other artifacts related to the Civil War.

Individuals may call (615) 253-3470 or e-mail civilwar.tsla@tn.gov to schedule a reservation with the archivists. Reservation forms and available times may be found on the State Library and Archives’ section of the Department of State web site at http://tn.gov/tsla/cwtn/events.htm.

The archivists will scan or take digital photographs of the materials, some of which will be featured in an upcoming exhibit titled, “Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee.” The archivists will not actually take possession of the items from their owners.

“This is an important project for the Tennessee State Library and Archives,” Secretary of State Tre Hargett said. “The Civil War was obviously a major event in our state’s history, so we need to take appropriate steps to make sure these treasures are properly preserved for future generations.”

Attendees at the event will receive copies of the digital photographs and tips on how to preserve their Civil War memorabilia.

Archivists plan to visit all 95 of Tennessee’s counties in search of material for the exhibit, which will commemorate the Civil War’s 150^th anniversary.

Parade flags on display at Matthews Nissan

Did you know that this is the 235th birthday of the United States Army? Yes, it is. And along with paying homage to the Army, today is also Flag Day. Look around you as you travel today and check if the nation’s flag is being properly flown.

City Hall, fire stations, the 911 Center, the Tourism/Visitors Center on Holiday Drive, post office branches, hotels and inns, new and used car dealerships have all made ready use of displaying our flag.

Local government entities in years past have been found in violation of the Flag Code, and several local businesses have also been noted to be flying the flag improperly.

Northeast High School Color Guard retrieves the flag at graduation ceremony

Many of the July 4th commercial materials on sale in stores also breech flag etiquette as the flag is not supposed to be made part of a clothing garment covering the posterior, displayed on disposable items like cushions, handkerchiefs, boxes, paper napkins, paper towels, paper plates or any type of ash tray or trash receptacles.

The flag should be retrieved at sundown. It is never to be flown after dark without proper illumination. Worn, faded, tattered, ripped, torn or dirty flags should be removed from display and given proper retirement. These services are readily available at local American Legion units. Replacement flags are usually given out as part of the exchange.

A full listing of flag etiquette is available at http://www.usflag.org/flagetiquette.html.

The festival includes a Senior Stroll (one mile walk), Little Mr. and Miss Contest, a BBQ Cook-off, a pancake breakfast, 100-year Anniversary Cemetery Tour, street dances, live entertainment, a 1938 mail robbery re-enactment, an antique and classic car show, karaoke, museum tours and a kids zone. The festival wouldn’t be complete without a fireworks finale.

For more information, call 270-483-2511 or visit www.guthrieky.com.

“These listings highlight some of the diverse places that tell the story of Tennessee’s unique history,” said Patrick McIntyre, executive director of the Tennessee Historical Commission. ”Our office is proud of its role in ensuring recognition of these time-honored places that help give Tennesseans a sense of pride in their communities.”

Sites recently added to the National Register of Historic Places include:

• Hall-Harding-McCampbell House – Located in Nashville, the Hall-Harding-McCampbell House is a good example of the Federal style in Davidson County. The Federal style is seen in the entry with fanlight, a Flemish-bond brick pattern, paneled and reeded interior woodwork and fireplace details. Constructed around 1805 for William Hall, the two-story solid brick house appears to have originally been a hall- and parlor-plan house. After the Harding family purchased the house, changes were made to the interior plan giving the house two rooms and a hall on each floor. In the late 19th to early 20th century, the house was updated with a new principal door, new windows, sawn wood brackets and a porch that has since been removed. A one-story gable roof extension is located on the east / rear elevation and there is a one-story hip roof addition on the south – both are framed and from the 20th century.

• Hamilton-Tolliver Complex – A circa 1830s log residence is the centerpiece of the Hamilton-Tolliver Complex in Union County. The complex also includes a store, the remains of a tomato cannery, smokehouse, privy, farm acreage and woodlands. The varied resources and long history of the property are good examples of the commercial and agricultural development of this rural area. The complex also represents the various ways farmers diversified their business over the years, using both the farm and outside commercial activities to make a living. An example of this is what the Tolliver family called a “rolling” store – then a stationary store building, followed by its use as a garage and then rebuilding it in the 1950s. Canning tomatoes rather than just growing and selling them, is another example of the Tolliver family’s varied farm activities.

• Hotpoint Living-Conditioned Home – The house was built in the West Hills area of Knoxville in 1954 as a demonstration house for a program sponsored by General Electric’s Hotpoint brand and featured in the magazine Living for Young Homemakers. Designed by Knoxville architect Bruce McCarty and Knoxville builder Martin J. Bartling, it was one of four houses built in the country to show how a moderately priced, all-electric house could be easily built and lived in. The magazine was responsible for the interior decorations and for making the plans available to others. When the demonstration project ended, Bartling moved into the house. The one-story ranch house has a concrete core supporting a cantilevered truss roof and curtain walls of glass and wood paneling. The core contains the bathrooms and kitchen and divides the interior spaces into public and private areas.

• Strickland Place Farm – Established in 1903, Strickland Place Farm is located near White House in Robertson County. Consisting of about 99 acres of farmland, the property contains a circa 1915 concrete block farmhouse, milk house, shop/equipment shed, corncrib and barns. Several modern resources can also be found on the property. An interesting feature of the farm is the former airfield. The farmstead represents an important example of how an early 20th century Tennessee family farm embraced progressive agricultural programs such as dark-fired and burley tobacco production, while also diversifying the farm’s income by operating a general store that sold automobiles, tractors and electrical appliances. Operation of the airfield provided weekend entertainment with airplane rides and barnstorming stunts. In some ways the property is typical of historic family farms in the state, but the airfield and the use of concrete block for the farmhouse makes this property unique in Middle Tennessee.

• Wilkinson-Martin House – The circa 1835 Federal-style house is located in Pulaski in Giles County. Important design elements of the house include the symmetrical five-bay façade, entry door surrounded by sidelights and a transom, multi-paned double-hung windows and “end” chimneys. The main staircase and fireplace mantels are interior features that are essential features of the Federal style. Francis H. Wilkinson, who built the house, was a farmer and businessman in Giles County. After his death in 1875, the house was owned by his daughter Mary L. Martin and her husband David S. Martin. The house remained in the family until 1968, when it was sold.

Links to each of the completed nomination forms can be found in the site descriptions listed above. For more information about the National Register of Historic Places or the Tennessee Historical Commission, please visit the Web site at www.tn.gov/environment/hist.Five Tennessee

The branches that once held the nest

Fort Donelson’s Eagle family is “homeless” today after the nest they have occupied for more than five years tumbled to the ground sometime between Sunday evening and Monday morning.

The adult eagles, which have raised multiple broods in this nest just a few hundred feet from Fort Donelson’s access road, hatched two eaglets this year; the first flew from the nest just over a week ago, while the second was still “finding his wings” and was frequently photographed prancing around the edge of enormous nest.

Eagle’s nests can measure more than eight feet in diameter. Park rangers had estimated that this year’s nest was more than ten feet in diameter.

A young eagle surveys the land beyond the nest.

Rangers and a cadre of photographers arriving Monday morning — as they have done throughout the nesting period — were shocked to discover  the tumble of twigs and branches on the ground, and the top of the tree bare.

Rangers admitted that the tree the eagles chose was leafless and dead, making the nest highly visible to photographers, not just from Tennessee and Kentucky, but from many other states.

Site of the fallen nest

Officials  also said the nest had been “shaky” and deteriorating. Surprisingly, this nest survived a harsh winter and multiple spring storms with extremely high winds. Then, in the windless night, it apparently came tumbling down.

Photographers, park visitors, and rangers are hopeful the eagles will remain at Fort Donelson, but the big question that lingers is, “Will they rebuild in the same tree or find another, more stable and perhaps less accessible (to humans) place to build another nest?”

Tuck-Hinton Architects' "readjusted" rendering of proposed Wings of Liberty Museum

The Fort Campbell Historical Foundation, Inc. has prepared an adjusted, phased design approach for the new Wings of Liberty Military Museum to be constructed on Fort Campbell, Ky. This approach allows for earlier presentation of all artifacts and the telling of the Ft. Campbell, 101st Airborne Division story, and recognizes a later expansion to incorporate aircraft inside the structure and accommodate expansion required by new history and memorabilia generated in the ongoing long war on terrorism.

The CEO and President of the Fort Campbell Historical Foundation, General J.H. Binford Peay, III, USA, (Ret.) offered these comments; “We are pleased with the adjusted new design of the Wings of Liberty Museum.” This is a nationally significant project that will preserve history for future generations.  The new revised design is adjusted to be a two phase endeavor.

“This phase approach will allow us to get the museum up and running,” said Kem Hinton of Tuck-Hinton Architects. “This is not really a ‘redesign’ but an adjusted design.”

Kem Hinton of Tuck-Hinton Architects unveils the "redesign" prints of the Wings of Liberty Museum

Phase One is construction of a single-level, 68,000 of structure with a spacious interior and 20’ foot ceilings fully housing all of the main components of the museum including exhibits designed by Ralph Appelbaum & Associates.

“Ralph Appelbaum & Associates are the best exhibit designers in the country,” said Hinton. “They are responsible for the Holocaust Museum and several other renowned exhibits.”

Phase Two, the tall glazed frontal Great Hall structure, will be constructed in the future.  In the interim, the numerous planes and helicopters previously planned to be in the Great Hall will be placed directly east of the new building, positioned on the lawn area with prominent visibility from both the inside of the museum and from Highway 41. The parade ground originally planned will be included in Phase One. Work continues on the fabrication of the exhibits by 1220 Exhibits.

With the re-scoped project, $19 million is required to commence and finish construction, and construction will begin as soon as this fund raising goal is reached.  This approach allows for earlier presentation of artifacts and history to our soldiers, continues our momentum and recognizes the reality of fundraising challenges in the current environment.

Jack Turner, the Wings of Liberty Campaign Vice Chairman, answers questions about funding.

“Bottom line, if we kept the museum design the way we were going, because of cost, we would be here for years and  years.” said Jack Turner, the Wings of Liberty Campaign Vice Chairman.

Turner praised the work of Kem Hinton of Tuck-Hinton Architects saying, “he was able to retrain the original footprint of the museum with presentations, reception, dinners and video presentations.” Turner also said “this museum will not only honor soldiers, preserve history, and educate our youth, but it will have significant impact on our region.”

The press conference  concluded with a statement on the importance of the museum, no matter the amount of funding needed. “Telling the story of our soldiers, the sacrifices they make and honoring them is the important thing to remember.” said Nichols.

“Here is Gen. Campbell, about to deploy to Afghanistan, with his game face on,” said Turner. “However, this project is so important that he volunteered to have this press conference.”

“Only 20 percent of memorabilia about the 101st Airborne Division is currently on display here at the Don F. Pratt Museum,” said Gen. Campbell. At least 80 percent of items cannot be displayed; however, the Wings of Liberty Museum would have the space. “This is my project and I intend to follow it through.”

Eagle Fest 2010 festival opened Saturday morning with a parade and an array of vendors in place, including arts, crafts and food. Among the delicacies cooked to order: homemade potato chips, a massive breaded onion, and a perennial favorite, funnel cakes.

A number of local agencies, including canine search and rescue, local officials, 2010 election candidates,  and FEMA, which positioned itself to offer assistance to those affected by the recent flooding. FEMA also had its mobile Disaster Relief office stationed at the Stewart County Public Library for three days to assist locals in flood recovery.

The military presence was equally noted as the National Guard set up a mobile ‘climbing wall,” a popular attraction despite the heat. Just four weeks ago, National Guardsmen were deployed to the Eagle Fest location for a different mission; delivering sandbags to stave off flooding in Stewart County.

The festival included a  vintage car show, non-stop music, memorial services, and a homemade  ice-cream tasting contest.

The celebrated eagles of Fort Donelson were the subject of numerous photographers; one fledgling has left the nest, while a second is testing his wigs in anticipation of a first flight.

Children were entertained with a “dunking” booth and several inflatables.

The museum partnered with the Kiwanis Club’s Service and Sacrifice committee to produce the display of portraits representing service men and women of Montgomery County. These black and white images framing the uniforms were taken from Faces of Valor: Veterans of Montgomery County. A project of the Kiwanis Club of Clarksville, the original display of portraits was unveiled in November, 2004. The panels can be seen in the restored Montgomery County Court House. A few faces on view in Call to Arms will be featured in an upcoming new edition.

The museum will be hosting activities in conjunction with the exhibit throughout the summer. On June 10, the monthly Art & Lunch series continues with a thirty-minute film on the art styles after World War I. Flag Day (June 14) will be celebrated with a noon Flag Raising ceremony, reading of the President’s Proclamation, and Taps. Following the outside ceremony there will be a short reception with guest speakers from the Service and Sacrifice Committee. Both of these activities are free and open to the public. Guests will be allowed to view the museum’s exhibit during this special event which runs 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Call to Arms will run through August 29. The Customs House Museum is the second largest general museum in the state of Tennessee, located at the corner of Second and Commerce Streets.  Museum hours are 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information on above exhibit and events, contact Terri Jordan, Curator of Exhibits, at 931-648-5780 or terri@customshousemuseum.org.

American Bald Eagle, for which this festival is named. photo by David W. Shelton

The City of Dover in Stewart County is revving up for its 4th annual Eagle Fest, which will be held at Church Street/Highway 79 May 22-23, with a special Memorial Day ceremony at For Donelson on Monday, May 31 at 1 p.m.

The festival begins with an 8 a.m. “Soaring Eagle Race,” a 5k run/walk from City Park. The opening ceremon will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, kicking off a day of arts and crafts, along with food vendors, children’s activities and music.  Entertainment begins at noon.

At 10 a.m., a car show will be staged at Gateway Ford.  At the same time, the Veteran’s and Eaglets (children’s) Parade steps off (line-up is at First Baptist Church Family Life Center at 208 Church Street.

Residents and visitors will be “dancing in the streets” at 7 p.m., when the festival’s street dance begin at Sentry Armor.

Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. brings the day’s events to a close.Fire works can be viewed from Sentry Armor’s parking lot.

On Sunday, the festivval opens with a Sunday service on the mainstage, followed by  arts and crafts, music and more throughout the day. A homemade ice cream contest begins at 3 p.m..

In keeping with the true spirit of Memorial Day, a Sunday evening vigil for veterans and a walk to the luminary program will be held. At 8:30, at dusk, a luminary program will get underway at the Fort Donelson National Cemetery.

While the Eagle Fest celebrations downtown end Sunday evening, Memorial Day services continue at Fort Donelson National Cemetery, where a 1 p.m. ceremony will honors the lives and sacrifices of all who have served our country over the years.

For additional information, contact Dover City Hall at 931-232-8290, Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

GOLDEN POND, KY: The Homeplace  staff at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area  believes that, “All Work and No Play Makes Jack a Dull Boy.” With that sage proverb in mind, the June 5 Children’s Day at the Homeplace will focus on 1850’s entertainment.  Mother Goose rhymes and themed activities will help modern day kids experience old-fashioned fun and entertainment including outdoor play, parlor games, stories, music, work bees, and homemade toys.

A full day of activities is scheduled on the Homeplace farm from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.  Mother Goose stories and group games will be offered throughout the day at 11 a.m.-noon, 1-2 p.m., and 3-4 p.m..  Admission is $4 ages 13 and up, $3 ages 5-12, and 4 and under are free (includes Homeplace admission).

“This year’s event is a unique twist to Children’s Day.  “All Work and No Play Makes Jack a Dull Boy,” was an old proverb warning parents that children needed to experience playtime in order to learn.  Although an 1850’s child had to work hard on the farm, there were many opportunities to play in a child’s day.” – Cindy Earls, Special Events Coordinator.

Cherri Coleman, Nashville native and professional storyteller, will be at the farm to charm children with her whimsical portrayal of Mother Goose.  Her folklore and traditional tales include games, songs, and hands-on discovery for young and old alike.  Kids will also be able to collect Mother Goose rhymes throughout the day and turn them into a storybook to take home.

The Homeplace is located in the Tennessee portion of LBL.  Pack a picnic lunch, bring your camera, and come ready for an enjoyable day of fun and discovery.  The day offers a variety of activities for all ages, but is especially geared for ages 5-12 and for home educators.  Come out and experience the fun side of a farm child’s life and be entertained by Mother Goose and her stories.  Both children and adults can be sure to use their imagination as they learn to play the 1850’s way.

Additional LBL information is also available on our website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.  Find more about “Friends of LBL”at www.friendsoflbl.org.

Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area is offering walk and talk tours to visit an excavation being conducted by students attending the Murray State University (MSU) archaeological field school. This year’s field school continues excavations that began last year in the area of former slave quarters associated with the Center Furnace community.

Two tours will be held at 1 and 3 p.m. each Friday afternoon in June. Participants will meet and leave from Woodlands Nature Station and walk about ¼ mile to where the dig is taking place. While walking to the dig site, you will hear about the iron industry history at LBL. Visitors will examine the landscape and history surrounding the Center Furnace community, which was one of nine iron furnace communities Between the Rivers.

Walking tour participants will then visit the dig site and learn about the archaeological investigation that Dr. Kit Wesler and his MSU students are conducting in this portion of the former community. The group is trying to identify the location of former slave quarters based on a hand-drawn map. Participants do not need to RSVP for this program. The event will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.

Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education.  LBL information and maps are available on our website at www.lbl.org or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.  Find out more about “Friends of LBL” at www.friendsoflbl.org.

The service will feature a love offering to support charities involved with the local flood relief. The church will also accept non-perishable item for flood recovery. The service is to include prayer, speakers, and uplifting music by Marked, the St. Bethlehem UMC youth praise band.

For more information, please call Pastor Josh McClurkan at (615) 351-2801.

New Red Wolf comes to the Nature Station

On Friday, April 16, Woodlands Nature Station (NS) at Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area received a 3-year old female red wolf from the Knoxville Zoo in Tennessee.  She will be a partner to LBL’s 7-year old male red wolf who lost his 15-year old partner in 2009.  The red wolf is related to the gray wolf and coyote, but it is the only one of the species that is found exclusively in the United States.  Both the gray wolf and red wolf are currently on the Federal Endangered Species List.

Bill Lisowsky, LBL’s Area Supervisor, invites everyone to come out and visit the new female red wolf.  “The NS has 150 species of native plants and 43 different species of animals.  Other than our four red wolves in the captive breeding program each animal including our bald eagle, bobcat, vultures, coyotes, turkeys, and snakes are rescue animals that could no longer survive on their own.”

From 1973 to 1980, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) captured every single red wolf in the United States and declared the species officially extinct in the wild.  This drastic measure was taken to establish a captive breeding program to save the red wolf population.  Red wolves were being forced to breed with coyotes that moved into their territory jeopardizing the survival of the red wolf as a species.

Genetic testing that was performed on the 400 captured wolves revealed that only 14 were truly red wolves.  In 1984 the USFWS and the American Zoo and Aquarium Association took this tiny remaining population and implemented a captive breeding program for the red wolf.  LBL became a partner for that program in 1991.

NS Lead Naturalist, John Pollpeter, said he was excited about the opportunity to host the new wolf and educate the public about red wolves, which used to be native to LBL.

“Since we began with the last 14 red wolves in the United States we have been able to expand that population to 300.  Red wolves generally mate for life; we’ve had wolf puppies at NS in the past and we’re hoping our new wolf partnership will produce puppies in the future.”

The incredible detail of the Haitian sugar cane locomotive belies its diminutive size. The train was hand-painted by Tom Grabenstein. Photo by David W. Shelton

Saturday’s Train Fest at the historic L&N Train Station might have been dampened by consistent rain, but spirits inside couldn’t have been warmer. A joint event with the Customs House Museum, the L&N’s share of the festival showcased several model trains and the full-size locomotive and caboose that are a part of the station’s permanent exhibits.

Perry York (left) is presented with a plaque from Montgomery County Historical Society president Joe Filippo (center) and Customs House Museum board member C. David Elliott (right). Photo by David W. Shelton

Part of the day’s festivities were to recognize those who took part in the restoration of the locomotive and caboose that were damaged heavily by vandals in late 2006. The windows were broken out and the entire site was tagged with graffiti. After the exterior was repaired and repainted, work on the caboose’s interior began last August by Perry York.

York repainted the interior walls with a white enamel, replaced the floors, and reupholstered one bench, and replaced two others. The original sink, wood stove and ice box are all intact, as well as the upper seating area at the rear of the caboose. Ward 7 City Councilman Geno Grubbs was on hand to congratulate York and the rest of the members of the Montgomery County Historical Society on their accomplishments.

C. David Elliott (left) discusses trains with Montgomery County Historical Society vice president Billyfrank Morrison (center) and MCHS president Joe Filippo (right). Photo by David Shelton

Grubbs’ interest in trains dates back to his father and grandfather, who were both engineers for the L&N Railroad. “I always took the train when I was a kid,” he recounted. “Even today, when we travel, I still prefer to take the train,” adding that the closest Amtrak depot is “about two and a half hours away” in Carbondale, IL.

Displays in the station included several model trains, including a display by C. David Elliott, a life-long model train enthusiast. “I was born in an October,” he said. “That same Christmas, there was a model train under the tree. Ever since then, we had model trains.” Elliott’s trains have also been on display at the Customs House Museum, much to the delight of tourists and children alike.

The Haitian sugar cane train set is complete with miniature buildings and signs written in French and Creole. Photo by David W. Shelton

The smallest display at the train station was a model of a Haitian sugar cane train railroad. “It’s about as small as you can build one,” said Tom Grabenstein, who spent nearly two years constructing the micro layout. Because Haitian railroads, locomotives, and scenery aren’t readily available, Grabenstein custom built every element of the set.

Complete with miniature chairs made from cardboard, a tiny sugar cane cart (instead of coal), and signs written in French and Creole, the scene is replete with every possible tiny detail. Grabenstein’s interest in trains began in 1978 when he bought his first model trains for his children. “But then after a while, the kids could care less,” he joked. From then on, he kept his interest in the miniatures.

Christopher Taylor recounts the tragic 1947 train disaster to Drayden Samuels, 10. Photo by David W. Shelton

Christopher Taylor, also a volunteer train operator with the Customs House, pointed out that the larger golden train that ran across the floor of the room, is a garden train. It’s a larger scale miniature than either Grabenstein’s or Elliott’s. Taylor explained that garden trains are often built outdoors by enthusiasts looking for a little backyard serenity. The tracks are made of brass and nickel, which inhibits rust.

Taylor, who’s also a full-time student, constructed several dioramas to enhance several train-centered stories. One is a reconstruction of the tragic 1947 accident during which a locomotive drove off the tracks into the Cumberland river since the bridge was open due to maintenance.

This diorama shows the train robbery of 1897, where Gus Hyatt walked off with $4000. He was later arrested in Kansas City. Photo by David W Shelton

Another diorama illustrated a train robbery in 1897, where Gus Hyatt’s infamous actions even made the news at The New York Times. He got the drop on the express car, and lifted the conductor’s pocket watch, and demanded money. The safe wasn’t secure, so he took advantage of that as well. Hyatt then pulled the emergency line, forcing the train to stop. He walked away and into Kentucky with $4000. In a classic twist of fate, he was arrested in Kansas City, Missouri after bragging about his robbery during a bar fight.

“He wasn’t the brightest criminal,” Taylor said. He was extradited to Tennessee, tried, and convicted within 8 hours. “That’s how swift justice was back then.” He was sentenced to 14 years in prison. Ironically, Hyatt was happy to be arrested in Tennessee since he had confessed to killing four people in other states.

Trains may never again dominate our nation’s traffic, but this year’s Train Fest provides a small glimpse into what life was once like when these giant steam locomotives ruled the tracks.

The L&N Depot program runs from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Depot at 189 South 10th Street  and Commerce Street, with tours of the vintage station offered throughout the day. Historical reenactments will be performed on Saturday only. Featured at this site are dioramas of a Clarksville Mail Train robbery, a train wreck that occurred in this city, and displays of Civil War and modern railroad artillery.

The L&N Station will also host a full-sized locomotive and caboose, and have operating train displays including garden trains.

The Customs House Museum will present exhibits of Nashville building models, from a Nashville Children’s Museum layout circa 1955. Visitors of all ages can bring in their own model trains for a check-up (Saturday only).

Saturday admission (for all locations) is $5/adult, $2/students and college students with ID. Children under five are admitted free.

The Madison Business Circle, Hilldale Kiwanis Club and Montgomery County Historical Society are corporate sponsors for this event.

Yeah, this is us!

Although Mother Nature dealt a difficult hand over the weekend, the 12th Annual Night Stalkers Bass Tournament went on at Dover’s City Park. The Saturday fishing was postponed, although one determined fisherman did  stay out on the waters. Sunday saw over one hundred boats launch onto the waters of the Cumberland River and Lake Barkley. A rainbow of colors from an array of bass boats provided a dazzling visual against the gray-brown backdrop of choppy waters. The atmosphere was one of anticipation; music, food and play filled the time as anglers tried their hand at catching the lakes hidden treasures for a shot at angler glory on the scales.

The Night Stalkers Bass Tournament began as a fundraiser effort to aid a fellow Night Stalker with a personal family medical emergency twelve years ago. As a result of that successful effort,  the Night Stalkers  saw an opportunity to set in place a mechanism whereby they could ‘take care of their own’ when more standard venues failed to meet the needs of a family member. Brian Henley, the current coordinator for the association’s outreach efforts, is quick to point out that without the help and support of fellow Night Stalkers and supporters, there would be no successes to celebrate.

Grillmasters at the steady

While the fisherman traversed the waters seeking that big fish, friends and fellow anglers gathered in the park area to enjoy music, grilled foods and fellowship. An inflatable bounce castle kept youngsters busy. The men manning the grill did an excellent job of keeping the food coming, fresh and hot. Gathered spectators and supporters had plenty of stories and memories to share; never doubt that anglers don’t know how to tell a good story. In this crowd, there were pros aplenty.

At 3 p.m., the boaters returned for the all-important weigh-in of the day’s catch. The weight board filled slowly and numbers tracked the leaders in total weight and big fish categories. Active duty anglers and non-active duty anglers alike strode up the steps to have their day’s effort face final judgment.

Andy Lafave and his Owl Catch

Teams included  father-son, grandfather-grandson and husband and wife teams in the mix  of friends and Army buddies trying to land the prize of the day. Although most attendees admitted to having a good time out on the water, fishermen Andy Lafave and Jay Pace might have a difference of opinion on that that. While everyone else was fishing for large-mouth bass, these guys ended up catching a full grown owl! Good thing it was catch and release.

The Night Stalkers Association would like to thank all the sponsors and supporting businesses who gave generously to make the tournament such a success. Raffle prizes, food and drink came from Dover and Clarksville businesses, the Montgomery County Bass Club and friends of the association. The Night Stalkers also expressed appreciation to the  Town of Dover, Stewart County and the Chamber of Commerce for their support and cooperation that made the tournament possible.

The results for the day of fishing follow:

Following the naming of award winners, raffle prizes were given out. Brian Henley made this a fun affair for all on hand, whether they held tickets or not. Youngest baby, youngest mother, most ugly man, longest married couple were just some of the spontaneous categories created for awarding gift cards and certificates. The most determined fisherman was recognized as SSG Slone Sake from the ALSE (Aviation Life Support Equipment) Shop. The most unusual catch of the day goes to Andy Lafave and Jay Pace, who managed to outdo everyone by catching a 30-pound owl. That’s one story that’ll be hard to top for a long time.