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How many parks have you been to that are along the Huron River? What are some of the things that people can do at those parks? We’re not the first people to think of using the river for fun – Ann Arbor’s citizens have always turned to the river when they needed a break. People swam in the river on warm days. They took walks along the river’s banks. George Washington Pray, a student in the first graduating class of the University of Michigan, mentions walks through the woods and along the river frequently in his diary. In one entry from July 23, 1844 he wrote:
"In the evening I went walking with friend Perry. We went through my favorite wood among the hills and valleys about 1 1/2 miles to a beautiful place by the river. On the high bank we could stand and look far off into the surrounding country. The sun was just setting and it gilded everything around with its golden beams. Before us was the river winding along its shady banks with soothing murmurs and far off stretched scenery diversified with hills and woods with houses and fields all glittering in the setting sun. After enjoying this a little we went down to the banks of the river stripped and went in. After a good play in the water we slowly returned to the University enjoying the cool breezes of the lovely evening."
Picnics and town events were also held on the riverbanks. Some people canoed in the river and some people just relaxed near it. And people still picnic, canoe, and walk along the river today.
Just to Think About: