100th anniversary of first albino squirrel sighting celebrated

Nov 17: Giant Forks: Sign of the Tines
Nov 12: Squawk Show
Nov  9: Lucy In The Sky With Damage
Nov  1: Parking Spots: House of Cars
Oct 29: Flamingo Flap
Oct 28: Tip O’ The Hat ‘N’ Boots

100th anniversary of first albino squirrel sighting celebrated

"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]

Home of the White Squirrels

Address:: 584 N. 130, 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.
Hours:: Daylight Hours. (Call to verify)
Phone:: 618-395-7302

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