History and Heritage

The Thornhill Nature Preserve was acquired by Huntington University in 1967 through a Nature Conservancy Loan made possible by Mabel Thorne. The 77-acre nature preserve was owned by Ms. Thorne, a local teacher, who believed not only in the value of education, but also of God’s creation. Her legacy has been passed on as Huntington University students and faculty, elementary and secondary students, teachers, and community groups have been educated and inspired by the beauty and function of this nature preserve.

Thornhill is rich in its diversity of ecosystems and wildlife. From large stands of pines, to a deciduous woods, large pond, fields and streams, the acreage is full of life and educational possibilities. Each season brings change to the flora and fauna of Thornhill, but the opportunity to learn is always present.

Through the years improvements have been made, but the mission has remained the same: using nature as a tool to educate and create lasting impressions of the value of God’s creation. One of the major improvements was the addition of the Reiff Nature Center, which was made possible by Edith Reiff who was a friend and colleague of Mabel Thorne. The nature center houses a large classroom with fireplace, kitchenette, resource library, computer stations, and restroom facilities.

In 1998, Huntington University received an $850,000 grant from the Lilly Endowment to develop an extensive educational program known as MindScape at the nature preserve. MindScape is a collaborative program between the college and the Huntington County School Corporation. Students in grades K-12 can come to Thornhill to learn about math in nature, write poetry and short stories about nature, study winter biology, and many other subject areas all incorporating God’s creation. The MindScape Academy, also funded by the grant, is geared toward high-ability students in eighth grade who are potential first generation college-goers. One Saturday each month these students come to Thornhill for fun and educational workshops. They are also given information about planning for college and careers. The goal of both the K-12 program and the Academy is to foster a love for learning among the students of Huntington County.

Huntington University has a rich heritage of caring for and learning from the environment. Thornhill is just one example of how education and a love for God’s creation can go hand in hand. Coming to Thornhill provides an experience, which is not only memorable, but also valuable. In the years to come the Thornhill Nature Preserve will continue to serve as a place to educate and inspire those who visit.

Back to Thornhill home page > > >