Cleveland Metroparks are the focus of historical society program

“To Conserve and Preserve: Cleveland Metroparks History 101," presented by Judy MacKeigan, is the topic for the Feb. 15 Bay Village Historical Society potluck dinner program.

MacKeigan will relate the entertaining history of the beginnings and growth of the Cleveland Metroparks from its inception in the early 1900s to its current status as the much-loved “Emerald Necklace” of Northeast Ohio. Cleveland Metroparks is an extensive system of nature preserves that generally follow rivers and creeks through the region. The park spans more than 21,500 acres and provides walking, bicycling and horse trails, picnic areas, nature centers, golf courses and fishing spots.

Judy MacKeigan is currently the historian/archivist for Cleveland Metroparks. She joined the park system in 2010 while completing her master's degree in history from Cleveland State University. MacKeigan enjoys researching, compiling and sharing the history of the Cleveland Metroparks. She was the lead author of the book, “The 100 Year Trail: A Centennial Celebration of Cleveland Metroparks,” and serves on the Centennial Celebration committee.

The 6 p.m. potluck dinner and following program are open to the public. Please RSVP to Steve Ruscher at steveruscher884@gmail.com or phone 216-346-5645. If you are not a member of the Bay Village Historical Society, a $5 donation to help cover meal costs is suggested. The historical society will provide the main course of homestyle meatloaf with gravy. Those with a last name beginning with A though L are asked to bring an appetizer or dessert for 10 to share. Those with a last name beginning with M through Z are asked to bring a side dish.

Membership in the Bay Village Historical Society is encouraged and the annual dues are only $20.