Vermillion County Illinois used to be known for coal mines and manufacturing. When the coal mining ended and manufacturing decreased, parks were created.
Kennekuk Park boasted a 1000-gallon aquarium. This sounds huge but turns out to not be as big as you think. Can you find the fish?
The park also boasts Lake Mingo, multiple hiking trails, and a historic area called Bunker Hill Historic Area. My first thoughts when hearing “Bunker Hill” was the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill in Massachusetts. Kennekuk Bunker Hill doesn’t have anything to do with the battle. There is a Bunker Hill, Illinois but that’s not located in Vermillion County. Nor are the buildings from Bunker Hill, Illinois.
Bunker hill consists of various old buildings moved to the park for conservations and education purposes. A newer Wind Mill was added that provides electricity for restrooms. The walking tour pamphlet was provided to bettter understand the significance. Photos of the pamphlet is at the end of the blog.
The walking tour downside was that all the doors were locked. My best guess is the buildings are open on weekends or special events. I did peep through the windows and take a look.
I really enjoyed the train station since I was able to pretend to be baggage and ride the baggage cart. Too bad it wasn’t on the rails ๐
I went to get gas to the local Neff’s Grocery
The park had quite a few hiking trails. John and I started by the Dam Overlook walked the dam spillway and continued around to the back the of the lake. The trail was nice until we were on the backside of the lake. The trail consisted of large healthy corn field on one side and woods on the other. It felt like we were walking on cut hay — not my favorite area to walk. The non hay field area was pleasant.
I hope you enjoyed hearing about our adventure.