Mill Creek MetroParks rings in quasquicentennial anniversary

January 2, 2016 at 4:46p.m.

YOUNGSTOWN

What began as one man’s refuge from the hustle and bustle of the rapidly-industrializing city this year marks a significant milestone in its history, now as a metropolitan park district that spans roughly 5,000 acres and provides recreational opportunities to thousands of people.

Mill Creek MetroParks, founded in 1891 by Youngstown lawyer Volney Rogers, is celebrating its 125th – or, quasquicentennial – anniversary in 2016. Throughout the year, the park will commemorate the occasion with special programming that begins today.

Visitors can take part in “Hunt & Hike” at Ford Nature Center, during which 25 items – which change each month – are hidden there for visitors to find. The park also will host monthly hikes around Mill Creek Gorge, in honor of Rogers. For detailed event information, visit www.millcreekmetroparks.org.