Fairchild Cemetery Savanna Nature Preserve
One of the few high-quality savanna remnants left in the state.
Over 35 other herbaceous species of prairie plants are known to occur at this site.
Headstones from the early 1800’s are still present, and illustrate the hardships of life at that time.
Serves as a memorial to both the persons buried here as well as to the natural heritage of Illinois.
This small cemetery is one of the few remaining savanna remnants left in Illinois. For many years, this site was protected and managed by the Vermilion County Audubon Society. The management program for this preserve includes prescribed burning and brush control. For the last several years prescribed burns have been conducted here with encouraging results.
Some of the predominant plants of this savanna are big bluestem, Indian grass, New Jersey tea, showy goldenrod, drooping coneflower, and prairie rose. Over 35 other herbaceous species of prairie plants are known to occur at this site.
I-74 east from Champaign to exit 210. Merge with US 150 then north on Henning Rd to 2300N. West on 2300N to 1140E (Indian Springs Road) which passes by Fairchild Cemetery.
ADDRESS:
24001-24059 Co Road 1140 E, Danville, IL 61834
Lat: 40.216746 Long: -87.711822
Directions to the Preserve
Preserve is open for public access dawn to dusk. This is an Illinois State Nature Preserve, and use is limited to walking, birding, and photography. Camping, picnicking, littering, pets, and vehicles are not allowed inside the preserve. All plants, animals, birds, and insects are protected, so do not disturb or remove any natural objects including rocks, plants, seeds, or insects.
