100th Anniversary of Peoples State Forest

For 100 years, Peoples State Forest, located in northwest Connecticut has been a valuable natural resource for residents, visitors, and wildlife. Bordered by the Federally-designated, Wild and Scenic West Branch of the Farmington River, Peoples State Forest, its lush forests, vistas, and expanse, have breathed life into the surrounding environment, providing protection for the watershed, the river, and its flora and fauna.

Peoples State Forest was formed by interested people who donated $8 an acre for land. This initiative was spearheaded by State Forester Austin Hawes, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Connecticut Federation of Women’s Clubs, and the Connecticut Forestry Association. It was this spark of genius — an appeal to the people — that created what would become a showcase of forestry, not only in Connecticut, but in the nation. Peoples State Forest was dedicated in October 1924.

As we approach the 100th Anniversary of Peoples State Forest, we want to celebrate its flora and fauna and the vibrant river that borders it. The farmers, blacksmiths, families, summer visitors, shopkeepers, and factory workers who generously donated money to buy the land preserved a beautiful and popular place for all to visit for generations to come.

Throughout the years, Peoples has become a destination for recreation — from fly fishing to hiking to canoeing/kayaking to family gatherings – an area with a robustly vital river, a historically significant area, and a valuable destination for those from within and outside the region.

The Friends of American Legion and Peoples State Forests (FALPS) is joining with a number of other organizations to plan a celebration, which will include a tree planting effort to ensure that Matthies Grove retains its majestic foliage to continue to allow future generations to come and enjoy the forest for the next 100 years; a vibrant, enduring film of the Past, Present and Future of Peoples State Forest and the West Branch of the Farmington River that borders it; a gala and a full day of activities for all to celebrate the Forest.

To do so, we once again ask the people to offer up donations to not only celebrate this jewel of forests, but to also help commemorate its importance and to help preserve it.