Putnam Park facts for kids

Putnam Park is a special natural park that covers about 230 acres (or 0.93 square kilometers). It belongs to the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. This park is right in the middle of the city of Eau Claire. It follows the Chippewa River on its west side and Minnie Creek on its east side. Part of the park is next to the Third Ward neighborhood. You can find it just south of a steep road called Harding Avenue. This road used to be known as "Plank Street Hill."

A group called the Putnam Park Commission helps manage the park. This group includes people from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, the Eau Claire City Council, and other local citizens. They work together to take care of the park.

Park History: How Putnam Park Began

Early Days of Putnam Park

The land for Putnam Park was given to the city of Eau Claire in 1909. A man named Henry Cleveland Putnam donated this large piece of land. He wanted the 230 acres to be a special place for studying plants. Many different kinds of trees and plants grew there naturally. He hoped it would become a living plant laboratory.

Changing Owners: From City to University

Later, in 1957, the park's ownership changed. It moved from the city to the Wisconsin State College at Eau Claire. This change happened under the leadership of W. R. Davies. The university now helps protect and manage this important natural area.

Nature's Wonders: Plants and Animals

Trees and Plants of Putnam Park

Putnam Park is mostly covered by forests. This is especially true near the Chippewa River. In the drier forest parts, you can see tall red pine and Eastern White Pine|white pine trees. These trees are very impressive. In wetter areas, you might find Black birch|river birch, Acer saccharinum|silver maple, Celtis|hackberry, Red maple|red maple, and Betula papyrifera|paper birch trees. The park is a great place to learn about different types of trees.

Wildlife: Who Lives Here?

Even though Putnam Park is in a city, many wild animals live there. Visitors often see large animals like white-tailed deer|deer, groundhog|woodchucks, and beavers. It's also a wonderful spot for birdwatching. You might spot red-tailed hawk|hawks, wild turkeys, red-bellied woodpecker|woodpeckers, and even bald eagle|eagles flying overhead. The park is a safe home for these creatures.

Fun Activities in Putnam Park

Putnam Park is a popular spot for many outdoor activities. It's a great place for people who love nature.

Trails for Walking and Running

The park has many trails for walking or running. These paths wind through the trees and along the water. It's a peaceful place to get some exercise.

Driving Through the Park

You can also drive through some parts of the park. The main road is called Putnam Drive. You can start driving on this road from Garfield Avenue, near the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. There's also a small parking lot on the eastern side of the Third Ward. However, cars can only drive one way on Putnam Drive, from east to west.

Marathon Route

Putnam Drive is a very popular road for runners. It's even part of the route for the Eau Claire Marathon. Many people enjoy running on this scenic road.