History of Putnam Park

Putnam Park is a 230-acre natural area owned by UW-Eau Claire. Most of the park is forested, although there is a small marsh area at the eastern end of the park and a small prairie area at the western end. The land comprising the heart of the park was donated to the city of Eau Claire in 1909 by Henry C. Putnam, who wished to see the land remain in its natural state and serve as a botanical laboratory and park in perpetuity. Over the years smaller tracts of land have been added to the original tract donated by Mr. Putnam. Ownership of the park was transferred from the city to the university in 1957.



The park is administered by the Putnam Park Commission, a body composed of representatives from the University, the Eau Claire City Council, and the community at large. It is advisory to the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. About half of Putnam Park is designated a Wisconsin State Natural Area. For the university the park provides diverse natural habitats for teaching and research that are available right on campus; for the community it is a quiet place for solitude, walking, relaxation, and nature study.

For more information, contact Dr. Evan Weiher.