Description

Product Details

Publisher: The Friends of Audubon
Publication Date: 2016
Edition Description: First Edition
Pages: 46
Product Dimensions: 5.5″ (w) x 8.5″ (h) x 0.125″ (d)

Overview

Kentucky has a legitimate claim on John James Audubon, the great ornithologist, naturalist, and artist, though he was born in Haiti, spent his childhood in France, and died in New York City. Here’s why: Audubon began his married life in Kentucky, his four children were born in Kentucky and the two girls died and are buried in Kentucky, he painted many of his famous paintings in Kentucky, the seed to make his life’s work — painting the birds of America — was planted in Kentucky, and he professed that his happiest days were his thirteen-year residence in Kentucky. This colorful and unique individual made a lasting contribution to art, science, and literature. He especially deserves to be remembered and celebrated where he performed his craft.

As a native of Henderson, Kentucky, where Audubon and his family lived from 1810 to 1819, I frequently visit the Audubon Museum, located in beautiful Audubon State Park on the outskirts of that west Kentucky city. I am proud that Henderson has done well in paying tribute to its most famous citizen. Dozens of businesses, institutions, streets, a four-lane parkway, an extensive birding trail, several parks, and a beautiful walkway along the nearby Ohio River bear his name and keep his legacy alive.

The following account of Audubon’s life specifically in Kentucky and a description of the creation of Audubon State Park may help keep that legacy alive.

–J. David Book, Jr. (Preface)

About the Author

J. David Book, Jr.,is a native of Henderson, Kentucky, and is a 1970 recipient of the Master of Arts degree in History from the University of Kentucky. While in graduate school, he served as a graduate assistant under the esteemed Kentucky historian, Dr. Thomas D. Clark, and completed his master’s thesis on John James Audubon in Kentucky. After a successful career in ministry and education, the author lives in Vermont, where he has served as a docent at the Vermont State House. He is a published author and an avid birder and gardener, and enjoys travel and local history.

Your purchase of this publication benefits the Friends of Audubon.

The Friends of Audubon is a non-profit organization established to enhance the public’s enjoyment and understanding of the natural wonders of John James Audubon State Park as well as the artistic and cultural treasures housed in the world-class museum. There is a constant need to maintain the works of art, to ensure they are properly displayed and cared for, and to develop and produce programs and exhibits. Memberships in the Friends of Audubon help fund those needs as well as keep members informed of related news and progress. Friends of Audubon members enjoy additional special benefits, including free general admission all year, savings in the museum store, priority reservations for special events, and much more. Keep your membership up-to-date by joining or renewing at www.friendsofaudubon.org.