Foundation-funded pelts enhance hands-on learning at Isle a la Cache

Program coordinator Amy McNeil (left) and interpretive naturalist Sara Russell look at pelts at Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville. (Photo by Jen Guest)

The Nature Foundation provided funds to the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s Isle a la Cache Museum to purchase 19 new fur pelts – which include fur from beavers, otters, coyotes, bobcats, minks, ermines, rabbits, raccoons, squirrels and skunks. The pelts help bring history to life at many of their public programs and field trips.

“Just one of the many ways we use pelts during field trips is to help students learn all about the 18^th-century fur trade when Potawatomi People traded fur pelts for pots, beads, blankets and other goods from French voyageurs,” said Sara Russell, an interpretive naturalist at Isle a la Cache.

During a field trip called The Trade, students are divided into two groups and instructed to make equitable trades.  After the first round, students learn why some furs were more valuable than others.  Feeling the fur for themselves, students understand why a beaver pelt was more valuable than a rabbit’s — and not just because it was larger. The beaver’s thick, waterproof, winter fur made it one of the most valuable commodities in North America.

“This was the currency here for a good chunk of time. This was the early American economy,” said Jenna Krukowski, an interpretive naturalist, adding that coins and paper currency had no value to the Native Americans who lived in Illinois Country, which included what is now Will County.

Krukowski said having tangible objects like furs and blankets — and more importantly, having enough for everyone to use — keeps the group engaged and interested throughout what might otherwise feel like a long lecture.

And the pelts aren’t only useful for historical programs and field trips. Program coordinator Amy McNeil said they are also beneficial for teaching people about wildlife that lives alongside us today.

“I’m always amazed by how naturally people are drawn to them,” McNeil said. “There’s something about the sensory experience of feeling different textures — whether it’s a baby or an adult, everyone seems to connect with it.”

The tactile experience also helps visitors grow their knowledge of wildlife because they can see and feel the colors and textures, said Krukowski, adding that kids often get a kick out of one of our most common and familiar animals — squirrels.

In today’s digital world, simply touching animal pelts can create a memorable experience. After all, most people don’t get the chance to walk up to a beaver or a coyote and touch its fur.  

This is just another (safe) example of how The Nature Foundation supports the Forest Preserve District’s programs and activities that protect nature, inspire discovery, and bring people and nature together.