Larry Dunphy Memorial Storybook Trail Grand Opening

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October 17th, 2021
1PM-5PM at the Hausen-Knox Shelter

Please join us for a day of family fun and celebration as FCCA hosts its GRAND OPENING and dedication of Franklin Creek's newest trail, the Larry Dunphy Memorial Storybook Trail. The day will kick off at 1:00 PM with children's nature activities and entertainment. A dedication and celebration of life for our dear friend and beloved local champion of nature and literacy, Larry Dunphy will begin at 4:00 PM. Please bring your favorite memories of Larry to share with all. The event is FREE and no registration is required. We will be following State and CDC guidelines for mask wearing and social distancing at the time of the event. For more information call Heather at 815.456.2718 or email engage@franklincreekconservation.org.

Children's activities to include planting seeds, creating bird feeders, scavenger hunts, a reading of the trail's featured story, and more!

The Larry Dunphy Memorial Storybook Trail features the children’s book Miss Maple’s Seeds and is installed along the trail near the Hausen-Knox Shelter. Each panel displays a page from the book. 

Larry was an impassioned champion for not only maintaining and enjoying our natural world, but also encouraging reading for education and pleasure. In partnership with his dear wife, Carolyn, they founded Books on First, a true gem in downtown Dixon. His service on the board of the Franklin Creek Conservation Association was a task in which he took great pride. Emboldening children to value nature and literacy, this trail is in sincere dedication to Larry, and a gift from him for all to enjoy.

Directions 
​Coming From the East (Rochelle area) - Take Route 38 West to Franklin Grove, Turn Right on Daysville Road. Turn left (first left) on Old Mill Road. Go approx. 1 to 1.5 mi until you see a Park sign. Turn left at the sign to go down the gravel entrance road to the Norwegian Hills Day Use Area.

Coming From the West (Dixon area) - Take Route 38 East to Franklin Grove, Turn Left on Daysville Road. Turn left (first left) on Old Mill Road. Go approx. 1 to 1.5 mi until you see a Park Sign. Turn left at the sign to go down the gravel entrance road to the Norwegian Hills Day Use Area.

Entrance Road: 1602 Old Mill Rd. Franklin Grove, IL 61031, follow entrance road to the first shelter
GPS to Hausen-Knox: 41.845330, -89.323750