Our region is renowned for its association with explorers such as Lewis and Clark. However, numerous other legendary adventurers and naturalists have traversed this remarkable confluence. One notable figure is John James Audubon. Join us for an engaging presentation by the talented Brian Fox Ellis, who will bring Audubon to life at Hayner Library on April 11 at 6:30 PM. This is a complimentary event, and we encourage you to secure your attendance by contacting Hayner Library at 1-800-613-3163. Don't miss this opportunity!

“Spend an hour in the studio of one of America’s greatest naturalists and wildlife artists. Listen to tales of his adventures as he finishes something no one had ever accomplished: drawing every bird in North America. Audubon will enchant you with stories of his travels and travails in the wildest places on the planet. He will celebrate the natural history of North America as he saw it in the early 1800s. Audubon will bring to life bird behavior, focusing on the birds you are most likely to see as you go bird-watching in your area. With lessons on field ecology, the scientific method, art history, and bird migration, the audience is invited to imitate birds and discuss the life histories of their favorite feathered friends.

Storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis portrays Audubon in these entertaining and meticulously researched monologues drawing from Audubon’s journals, essays, and letters to his friends and colleagues. This program was developed with a grant from the USFWS as part of their celebration of the 100th anniversary of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Fox has performed as Audubon in museums, nature centers, schools, and libraries across the United States, including Audubon’s home in Henderson, Kentucky.”

After learning about Audubon’s travels, prepare to embark on your own engaging journey. On Saturday, April 12, Brian will lead a captivating feather-finding adventure! Join him at 8:00 AM at The Nature Institute for a delightful bird hike, where you will explore the avian wonders meticulously documented by Audubon. The hike will cover a mile of easy-to-moderate trails, so be sure to bring your binoculars and a reliable water bottle. To secure your participation, please register at www.thenatureinstitute.org.

Additionally, if you seek further insights into explorers, we invite you to the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site at 2:00 PM. Brian Fox Ellis will present an intriguing discussion on the remarkable figures of Prince Maximilian of Wied and Karl Bodmer. These ethnographers offered profound insights into Native American life through their journals and artwork. No reservations are required for this lecture, which the Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speaker Bureau proudly sponsors.

 You can find information on all the programs happening at TNI by visiting www.TheNatureInstitute.org or calling (618) 466-9930.