To those that follow me, I hope that this land brings you the peace and serenity it has given to me for many years. It was like an old friend I looked after.
It made my heart sing and filled my senses. I loved the changing seasons, the changing weather, but especially the changing light. From sun light and moon light, day and night. And the many sounds from the wind in the trees to the call of the raven, the coyotes howling, barred owls hooting, deer snorting. The many birds calling, especially the whip-poor-will and wood thrush and gobble of the wild turkey in the Spring and the cackle of the pileated woodpecker. The black bears, bobcats, and bald eagles kept it wild, with the help of reptiles.
In the summer, the amphibians and insects have a chorus. Green frog, wood frog, gray tree frog, spring peepers, and others. At night, katydids and crickets joined by bats and flying squirrels like little spirits.
The Fall colors are a feast for the eyes. The Winter snow, peace and quiet. The Spring, hope and promise. Summer Joy.
I hope it will stay as wild as possible. In wilderness you can feel eternity, as in all of Nature. There is something spiritual about it. God’s creation and the richness of life on earth.
Do not be in a hurry when you walk in these woods. Look at the ground at your feet, into the trees above you and all around. Breathe in the deep smells of Nature. Feel the sun and wind and listen quietly. You will find peace and serenity.
I like to think of the many others before that have walked on this land that is now Connors Hollow. The first humans, followed by American Indians (perhaps Algonquins or Iroquois) and later by European settlers. All hunting and gathering, settling or just passing through.
What will it be like in 500 years or even 100 years from now? How will each new owner treat it as they come and go? In the beginning it belonged to no one and everyone – but now it is yours. Your turn to be the owner/caretaker of this land- and the home to all plants and animals that live there.
I put it in a Conservation Easement with the hope that it will be managed for the benefit of wildlife and enjoyed in its natural state for generations to come. Remain predominately wooded. That the pestilence we humans introduce can be controlled, oaks will dominate, and the American chestnut brought back.
I leave this letter to go with the land. I hope future owners will treat it gently with love and respect and embrace it like a friend.
May the wonders of Nature give you joy every day on this land in Connors Hollow.
Sincerely,
Robert H. Poole
Morgan County easement donor, 2007
