Elgin program looks at Illinois' unique environmental history

Situated at the confluence of three major rivers, grasslands to the west, and forests to the east, Illinois holds a unique environmental position in North America.

On Friday, March 2, the Elgin Public Museum will hold a presentation exploring how Illinoisans have altered and adapted to this environment over the past 12,000 years. Gregory Vogel will show artifacts and environmental samples from different time periods to illustrate key points, including artifacts from the famous Koster site, one of the largest archaeological excavations in North America.

Explore human/environment relations of the ancient past and the lessons they may hold for us today.

Vogel holds a Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas, writes a regular newspaper column, and gives monthly radio interviews on various aspects of Illinois archaeology and environmental history.

For more than 18 years, he has developed numerous programs about the environments of the Lower Illinois River and has given workshops and presentations on various aspects of Illinois history, prehistory, and human and environment interactions.

“People and Environments, Past and Present” will run from 7 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 2, at the Elgin Public Museum, located in Lords Park, 225 Grand Blvd.

This program is free and made possible in part by an award from the Illinois Humanities Council, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Illinois General Assembly. To reserve your seat, contact the museum at (847) 741-6655, epm@cityofelgin.org or visit elginpublicmuseum.org.