and the Treasures of Nature

Michigan state parks welcomed the newly-mobile drivers
of automobiles in the early 1900s. Genevieve Gillette made it her life's work to preserve precious natural settings and make them available to the travelling public. In 1920 she began her landscape architecture career working in Chicago with noted landscape designer Jens Jensen, whose naturalistic designs included the Edsel Ford estate at Haven Hill. Over decades, her career supported her enduring volunteer efforts in raising awareness of Michigan's natural wonders and their value to society. She established important conservation groups, gained funding for Michigan state parks, and even advised President Lyndon Johnson on recreation and nature.

You Auto Know
Gillette was honored by the opening in 1976 of the Genevieve Gillett Nature Center in P.J. Hoffmaster State Park near Muskegon.

Her Living Legacy:
Highland State Recreation Area, Michigan Natural Areas Council, Haven Hill Natural Area, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness Area, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Ludington State Park, Michigan Wildflower Association, Wilderness State Park, Hartwick Pines State Park, Michigan Parks Association, Thompson's Harbor State Park, Huron-Clinton Metropark Authority, Michigan Horticultural Society, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore,