100th anniversary of first albino squirrel sighting celebrated

May 15: Hats On To Stonewall Jackson, Defender Of Lexington
Apr 30: Beefcake of Roads: New Home For World’s Largest Muscleman
Apr 24: Join the Battleship NJ Gun Crew (Look Out, Philly!)
Apr 17: Muffler Men History: Moving Giants
Apr  8: The State vs. The Minister’s Tree House: Earthly Codes
Apr  5: Saloon Cowboy: A 21st Century Muffler Man

"White Squirrel Capital" Olney, Illinois is celebrating the historic moment when a pair of albino squirrels were captured by farmers and sold to a local tavern 100 years ago. The squirrels are said to be the Adam and Eve of Olney's current population, which numbers about 200, according to the last squirrel census.

The festivities include a centennial parade with squirrel-themed floats, a "Blessing of the Squirrels" and a 5k "scamper" down Main Street. A new granite monument will salute Olney's white squirrels.

[10/19/2002]

City Park

Address:: 584 N. West St., Olney, IL
Directions:: In City Park, which is on the east side of Hwy 130/West St. about four blocks north of the intersection of Hwy 250/Main St. They are pictured in a mural at 300 E. Main St., and "White Squirrel Mini Golf" is at 701 N. West St.
Phone:: 618-395-7302
RA Rates:: Worth a Detour