Metamora in Franklin County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Passenger Pigeon Extinction
By TeamOHE, September 21, 2019
1. Passenger Pigeon Extinction Marker
Side 1
Known for flocks that darkened the sky, the passenger pigeon was once the most abundant North American bird. A population in the billions as late as 1860 was nearly zero by 1900. Communication and transportation advancements enabled market hunters to kill unprecedented numbers for food and sport. Species became extinct when the last captive bird died September 1, 1914.
Before extinction, vast numbers of passenger pigeons migrated through Indiana, with many nesting in the state's forests in the spring. Pigeon roosts, which spread over miles and could damage and topple trees, often attracted amazed onlookers and hunters. The last verified passenger pigeon in the wild was shot about five miles from here near Laurel on April 3. 1902.
Erected 2017 by Indiana Historical Bureau.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Communications. In addition, it is included in the Indiana Historical Bureau Markers series list.
Location. 39° 26.833′ N, 85° 8.167′
By TeamOHE, September 21, 2019
2. Passenger Pigeon Extinction Marker
Side 2
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Water Wheel & Lock #25 (within shouting distance of this marker); Metamora Grist Mill (within shouting distance of this marker); The Carriage House (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Odd Fellows Hall (about 400 feet away); Canal Front Dry Goods Store (about 400 feet away); Farmers Bank (about 400 feet away); Jonathan Banes House (about 400 feet away); Ben Franklin III (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Metamora.
By TeamOHE, September 21, 2019
3. Passenger Pigeon Extinction Marker
Side 1
By TeamOHE, September 21, 2019
4. Passenger Pigeon Extinction Marker
Side 2
Credits. This page was last revised on December 26, 2020. It was originally submitted on December 26, 2020, by TeamOHE of Wauseon, Ohio. This page has been viewed 40 times since then and 5 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on December 26, 2020, by TeamOHE of Wauseon, Ohio. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
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