100 Years of Conservation: Honoring the Legacy of Kane County’s Forest Preserve Leaders

As the Forest Preserve District of Kane County marks a century of conservation, recreation, and environmental education, it is essential to recognize the individuals who shaped its history. Among them, Gunnar Anderson stands out as a pivotal figure in the district’s early development.

Anderson, the first employee and first Superintendent of the Forest Preserve District, dedicated 66 years to its growth, from his hiring in 1927 until his passing in 1993. His leadership helped lay the foundation for Kane County’s preserved natural spaces, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.

During the Great Depression, Anderson worked with the Civil Works Administration (CWA) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA) to bring much-needed labor to the preserves. These workers planted trees, cleared brush, and built structures that continue to serve the community today. Among them is the picnic shelter at Elburn Forest Preserve, built between 1934 and 1937 using stone from the 1871 St. Gall’s Catholic Church—a testament to the district’s deep-rooted history.

In 1978, Anderson was honored for his lifelong contributions when a 20-acre preserve in Geneva was named after him. Today, Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve offers a large open field for games, scenic trails, a picnic shelter, restrooms, and the Geneva Grotto, currently managed by the Geneva Grotto Organization.

As Kane County reflects on 100 years of stewardship, Anderson’s dedication serves as a reminder of the vision and commitment that have shaped the Forest Preserve District into what it is today. His efforts continue to benefit residents and visitors who enjoy these protected natural spaces, ensuring they remain a lasting treasure for generations to come.

Learn more about the Kane County Forest Preserve's 100 year celebration at https://kaneforest.com/