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Venture into flora and fauna of Pennsylvania's Moraine State Park and uncover the hidden histories behind its natural treasures.About 20,000 years ago, the late Wisconsinan glaciation reached its maximum extent. Glacial deposits identify the moraine, or farthest area covered by the glacier. Muddy Creek was a north-flowing stream that was blocked by the south-advancing glacier, forming a huge lake that lasted until the glacier dam began to retreat. The lake rapidly drained, eventually exposing the vast Muddy Creek basin. Dr. Frank Preston envisioned recreating the ancient glacial lake and worked with the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to begin the project that became 16,725-acre Moraine State Park. Its centerpiece, man-made Lake Arthur and the surrounds, provide outstanding outdoor recreation and relaxation opportunities.
About the author
A lifelong resident of Butler County, Pennsylvania, Polly Shaw is a retired teacher, history enthusiast, and longtime state park volunteer. She has selected images from park archives, resources of two park support groups, local amateur photographers, and her personal collection to tell the history of the immediate area, including the Western Allegheny Railroad and the impressive reclamation of the land that had been ravaged by mining and oil. Pictures illustrate the monumental work that transformed the land, from constructing the dam and moving a US highway to repurposing the surrounding area to create today's Moraine State Park.
