Red Caboose? What Red Caboose?
Someone recently asked me if there was a caboose (a red one) once located on the park property. I can say that yes, there was! Before I talk about this, though, I must first mention a little history.
In railroad history, a caboose (usually red for a reason) was located at the end of all trains. It was the office and sleeping quarters for three of the railroad workers, one conductor, the brakeman and the flagman. All of these workers had very specific jobs designated by their names.
With the advancement of technology in the 1970’s, trains began braking and signaling electronically. in 1982, the Railway Labor Act directed railroads to begin eliminating the cabooses where possible to do so, but in the process it also eliminated jobs.
Still, the popularity of cabooses was very high and many people did not want to see them go to waste. The idea arose to put them in parks and playgrounds, whenever and wherever possible. Because of this, one was donated to the YMCA in the early 1980’s and placed near the old day camp facility of of 90th Street. It was located by the forked path that leads to the dam and the esker. A playground was located by it named Arrowhead Playground. The day camp kids loved it!
The question always arises, just how did it get there … but I can’t talk about that! As far as to where it went, it was donated to Pioneer Park in Annandale.
So yes, Virginia ~ there was a caboose at the park!
Going on a Nature Walk
Since we began this adventure in 2006, many people have stopped to tell me that they love to walk through the Bertram Lakes property. When asked to describe their experience in one word, they
will say, “quiet, serene, beautiful, enjoyable, exercising, still, and renewing”. But … there are some rules to follow:
- Walk slowly.
- Spend 80% of the time looking up and around (unless you are looking for wildflowers or mushrooms).
- Open up all your senses, smell, see, hear, and feel what is being presented to you.
- Rest on a rock or stump and take in everything around you.
- Be aware of animals, birds, insects, trees, flowers, etc.
- Always check out something new.
There are many benefits to going on a walk through this beautiful property, some of which include:
- Relaxes the mind and body.
- Lowers stress, depression and anxiety.
- Increases attention span and memory.
- Provides exercise for the mind, body and spirit.
- Slows down our everyday pace.
- Gives us a peaceful feeling.
When going on a nature walk at Bertram park, here are just a few interesting things to look for:
- Glaciation: The park has three very special areas to be aware of,
- The “FEN”: A glacial lowland, a marsh located at the north end of Bertram Lake on the other side of the playground.
- The “KAME: A higher piece of land east of Long Lake. This is a perfect place to watch the emergence of the moon, planets and stars after sunset.
- The “ESKER”: Located between Long and Bertram Lakes, this high ridge of land is a perfect hiking area.
- Animal Life: Be aware of swans, loons, eagles, deer, beaver, and possibly river otter (for which Otter Creek is named).
- Flora: Trees of many varieties, wild flowers, mushrooms, etc.
Naturalist John Muir said it best, “in every walk with nature one receives more than he seeks”.
Whether it’s winter, spring, summer or fall, you’l always find something new to explore during your nature walks at Bertram!
Volunteers Needed!
We have lots of volunteer positions we need to fill for the Triathlon.
If you can help, please email: friendsofbertram@hotmail.com.
Thank You!
The YMCA will provide paddle rentals on Bertram June 17-August 19, 2018. Rent their equipment by the hour for use at the Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park. Visit the camp office for rental information any Saturday or Sunday during the summer within the dates listed above.
Times: Rentals available between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
FEES
- Stand Up Paddle Boards $20/hour
- Solo Kayaks $20/hour
- Tandem Canoes $30/hour
Call 612-230-9622 with questions.
PROGRAMS
All kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve—and Camp Manitou is a great place to just that. Explore Day Camp and Swim Lessons for kids ages 3-14.
Imagine yourself as a bold explorer hiking through wooded trails, studying the wonders of nature, canoeing along lakeshores and conqurering many challenges under the leadership of well-trained staff. Exciting activities include archery, lake swimmingl, camp crafts, outdoor cooking, and group games. Membership is not required for participation. For rates and registration information, please click here to visit the Day Camp Manitou website.
