Donna Shehane's Upcoming Book Sheds Light on Illinois' Forgotten Natural Heritage

Donna Shehane's upcoming publication, 'Illinois As It Was...By Those Who Were There,' is set to offer readers a unique glimpse into the state's rich but forgotten natural heritage and the lives of its early settlers. Drawing from Emigrant Guides and firsthand accounts from the 1800s, Shehane's work aims to bridge the gap between Illinois' past and present, highlighting the transformation of its landscapes and communities.

The book emerges from Shehane's personal journey to reconnect with Illinois, her lifelong home, despite her initial captivation with mountainous terrains. Her research led her to prairie restoration projects like the Schulenberg Prairie at the Morton Arboretum and Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, which played a pivotal role in shaping her understanding of the state's ecological history. Through these explorations, Shehane uncovered the profound connection between the land and its inhabitants, from Native Americans to European immigrants, whose stories are vividly recounted in her anthology.

Shehane's professional background in environmental engineering and her tenure at the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency have deeply influenced her perspective on conservation and historical preservation. Her book not only serves as a tribute to Illinois' natural and cultural legacy but also underscores the importance of environmental stewardship. By bringing to light the unmediated voices of those who experienced Illinois in its primal state, Shehane hopes to inspire a renewed appreciation for the state's ecological and historical significance among contemporary readers.

'Illinois As It Was...By Those Who Were There' is more than a historical account; it is a call to recognize and preserve the natural beauty and heritage that define Illinois. As the state continues to evolve, Shehane's work reminds us of the enduring value of looking back to understand our present and shape a sustainable future.