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Learn About Indiana's System Of State Parks

Last updated on Tuesday, June 5, 2018

(UNDATED) - Learn about the beginning of Indiana’s system of state parks and the role an Indianapolis businessman played in their development in a new documentary available online.

"Origins," a 42-minute film, portrays the story of Richard Lieber, a German immigrant and early conservationist who spearheaded efforts to develop Indiana state parks more than 100 years ago. The film also tells how Lieber overcame disappointment after a failed first attempt to purchase the land that became Turkey Run State Park.

"It reminds us that sometimes our biggest successes come when we don't give up after failure," said Ginger Murphy, deputy director of Indiana State Parks.

Storyteller Bob Sander developed the film and narrates it.

Sander wrote "Origins" in 2016 with funding from an Arts in the Parks grant through the Indiana Arts Commission as part of the Indiana State Parks 2016 Centennial Celebration. Originally, Sander presented "Origins" live and in-person to state parks visitors.

In 2017, Sander received a grant to convert "Origins" to a digital presentation that could be shared through electronic media and used in state park interpretive centers.

A link to the "Origins" video is at StateParks.IN.gov/2410.htm.

Indiana's first state park, McCormick's Creek, opened on July 4, 1916, followed by Turkey Run later that year. The system has since grown to 32 properties statewide.

See a calendar of arts events in Indiana state parks at StateParks.IN.gov/8423.htm.

Learn about grant opportunities through the Indiana Arts Commission at arts.IN.gov/2905.htm.

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