s the land warmed, and glaciers retreated, nomadic Native Americans claimed this land — a cradle of bounty — as their own for 600 generations. While here, a complex web of life enveloped them, and they fell into rhythm with this ancient river. The age of humanity had begun.

Nearly 12,000 years after the first nomad stepped foot onto the riverbanks of the ancient Illinois, settlers from faraway lands came to call this valley home. They were awed by the phenomenal natural bounty that supported Native Americans for millennia. The Illinois boasted an incredible freshwater fishery and abundant waterfowl, and its world renowned mussels became the base of a thriving button-making industry.

Millions of people now call this valley home. Although the river’s abundance has lessened under the weight of human demands, the waters of the ancient Illinois continue to support diverse life, including humanity. Today, we give back to this ancient river with newly created restoration projects and mark the dawn of a new time for this waterway.