Wanda English Burnett, Editor

Nestled in the Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge, formally Jefferson Proving Ground, stands the Old Timbers Lodge built in 1932 by Cincinnati businessman Alexander Thomson at a cost of $75,000. The 75-year-old structure, built from limestone quarried on-site, has unique spiral staircases, stone mantles, and window sills cut and shaped by stonemason August Rahe. Yellow poplar and timber from eight dismantled barns were used for the beams and the interior siding. The door hinges and other unique hardware were handmade by students at Berea College, Kentucky. The lodge is the only structure that was not destroyed when the army built the Jefferson Proving Ground in the 1940’s.

Old Timbers Lodge served as an entertainment center for army and civilian staff during the time JPG was active. Now, the building is used for events sponsored by Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge and Big Oaks Conservation Society (BOCS). BOCS is a non-profit group formed to support Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge. According to BOCS president, Jim Leveille, Old Timbers Lodge will not be available for rental by the general public. Upgrades to the electrical system, sanitary facilities, and access for those who are disabled are needed in order to be up to code, said Leveille. According to a study on lodge compliance, the cost of these upgrades would be more than a million dollars. Although Old Timbers Lodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, there are no plans to turn it into a museum.

Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge, established in 2000, is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Because the army still owns the land, the FWS has a 25-year renewable lease to protect and manage the natural resources of Big Oaks. The 50,000 acre refuge is located in Jefferson, Ripley and Jennings counties and lies north of the historic firing line. Wildlife such as golden eagles, bobcats, the great blue herron as well as turkey, deer, and squirrels, all live within the refuge. Visitors can see unique plant life that attracts thousands of butterflies and migrating birds each year. Hunting and fishing are allowed at the refuge and are subject to state regulations. Those interested in hunting at the refuge should contact the refuge office for additional regulations. There is a limit of 25 boats on Old Timbers Lake.

Day passes to the refuge are $3.00. Public use is limited to Mondays and Fridays, and the second and fourth Saturday of each month, from mid-April through November. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Special events, sponsored by Big Oaks Conservation Society, are held throughout the year at Old Timbers Lodge. Examples are Outdoor Women at Big Oaks, a one day program where women, 14 years and older, can learn skills in such areas as camping, bird watching, or backpacking and hiking. BOCS also sponsors Take a Kid Fishing Day, a free event held in June. Volunteers can help in the North American Butterfly Survey in July, or the National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count.

Those interested in learning more about Big Oaks Conservation Society and its mission to preserve the Old Timbers Lodge can visit www.bigoaks.org. For questions concerning the hours and regulations of the Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge, or to learn about scheduled events, visit www.fws.gov/midwest/bigoaks or call the refuge office at 812-273-0786.