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Union School Interpretive Center
Built in 1865, Union School served the rural residents of nearby Logan County for more than 80 years. The historic building was moved to Weldon Springs in 1988. It was restored, furnished and equipped for use as both a visitor center and a temporary classroom for area school groups wanting to relocate for a day. Children often test their strength on the schoolhouse lawn by pulling on the big bell rope. An interpreter is available for talks, programs and activities to enhance the visitors' experience year-round.
More than a museum, Union School is a hands-on learning center emphasizing science and local history with a "please touch" philosophy. Included in the center is a collection of taxidermy mammals, representative of those making their homes in the park, that encourages visitors to pet a squirrel's tail, feel a badger's claws or examine beaver's teeth.
The Texas Township Community Building was moved to the prairie in 1995 and serves as the interpreter's office. The Town Hall houses collections of bird nests, rocks and minerals, mussels, animal tracks, grasses, butterflies and other insects.
Hours of Operation:
Wednesday thru Sunday, 7am-3pm (Memorial Day thru Labor Day)
Contact for field trips and on-site programs:
[weldonspringsfoundation@yahoo.com]
Interpretive Events
July 20th 10 am. Adult class "Bird Watching: 101" Learn about birding from Master Naturalist, RoxAnne Snelson. She will share tips and tricks, apps and more! (This program was offered in June as well. We will have part 2 later this summer.)
July 27th 1 pm. "Wonders of Owls" Learn about owls from Master Naturalists Cassandra & Anton Meyen. We will dissect owl pellets as well. All ages welcome.
Aug. 3rd 9-11 am. "Bio-Blitz" in collaboration with the IL Extension 4-H and Ag & Natural Recourses. Come explore nature and help document species of birds, insects, mammals, fish and more! Meet us at Chautauqua Picnic Area.
Aug. 4th 1-2 pm. "Rock Talk" with avid collector Calvin Lunny. Mr. Lunny will share facts and bring some of his extensive collection. This is a fun, interactive program.
Sept. 21st 10 am. "Pollinator Gardens" in collaboration with the U of I Extension office. More info to come.
Oct. 26th 1-2:30 pm. Halloween Party with crafts, games and refreshments. Every child will leave with prizes and a candy bag.
