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]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
