New Field of Discovery Honors Mount Vernon Native
Mount Vernon City Council unanimously voted to create the Columbus Delano Field of Discovery in what’s known as the West Prairie at Ariel-Foundation Park
Delano, a pivotal figure in local history, served as Knox County prosecutor and served on First Knox National Bank and Kenyon College boards.
He went on to achieve national recognition by serving in the U.S. House of Representatives and running for Ohio governor in 1847. Following an unsuccessful bid for governor, Delano moved to New York City.
Returning to his roots, Delano later became the Secretary of the Interior under Ulysses S. Grant and is truly recognized for founding Yellowstone National Park. After resigning in 1875, Delano returned to his Mount Vernon home, Lakeholm. He is buried in Mound View Cemetery.
The prairie at Harcourt Road had previously been utilized as a pollinator field through the combined efforts of the Foundation Park Conservancy, the city’s Shade Tree and Beautification Commission, and volunteers who planted 50 native trees, including Johnny Appleseed tree grafts. While some walking trails already exist, culminating in a grand project envisioned by the northeast Ohio region’s Scream team, the city plans to expand visitor experience.
“It kind of exists in its infancy,” Safety-service Director Tanner Salyers explained. "We want to take it over and really turn it into something special.” The improvements will include sunflower fields, additional walking trails, and educational kiosks.
"Another idea,” Salyer continued, “is to install biodegradable public art, such as log sculptures. This art will be cycled out over a period of time.”
Salyers indicated that officials contacted both the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Congressman Troy Balderson to explore potential funding sources within the Interior Department.
The legislation officially naming the area the Columbus Delano Field of Discovery was adopted on second reading.
Overnight Camping Approved
In addition to the exciting changes for homeowners like independent living and make small park, council members approved an ordinance authorizing Greenspace to permit overnight camping in city parks. Previously, the council had to grant permission for events like the Boy Scouts Jamboree in Ariel-Foundation Park or Paddle for Heroes Park.
“We are enabling more community activities, such as family reunions or youth.
“We’re not adding camping spots, or anything like congo, bunch stated repeatedly – “Let me be clear – we’re not changing the plan of only allowing camps on special permits for events like the Boy Scouts jamboree in Ariel-Foundation Park or Paddle for Heroes at Memorial Park.”
Salyers explained, allowing̓people to apply to use the downtown condo for small nonprofits could offer guaranteed camping spots: “We’re not expanding access for the Park unanimously passed on second reading.
Other Legislative Actions
In addition, council members took action on numerous other items, including:
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Seeking Request for Qualifications from a management firm to oversee municipal building projects.
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Authorizing fundraising and bids on a federal grant- Harvey & to East Vine Street sidewalk repair project,
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Appointing Erin Daniels to the New Community Authority board.
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Authorizing Salyers to contract with CDC of Ohio to serve as the city’s Mayor for economic development
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Capping the reserve balance account and transitioning the money to optimize the money to a separate fund
- Transfer funds, pay bills, and approve supplemental appropriations of $30,203 from a state.
ecurity homme“This allows us to be better equipped to handle funding.
* Who was Columbus Delano?
## Interview: A New Field of Discovery in Mount Vernon
**Host:** Joining us today is Alex Reed, a local historian and frequent visitor to Ariel-Foundation Park. Alex Reed, thanks for being here.
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** As many of our viewers know, the Mount Vernon City Council recently voted to create a new attraction in the park called the Columbus Delano Field of Discovery. Can you tell us a little bit about this project and why it’s so exciting?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. This new field is a wonderful way to celebrate the legacy of Columbus Delano, a fascinating figure from Mount Vernon’s history. He served in many important roles, including Knox County prosecutor, U.S. Congressman, and even Secretary of the Interior under President Grant. You might know him best as the founder of Yellowstone National Park!
**Host:** That is quite a legacy!
**Alex Reed:** Indeed. And now this area, previously used as a pollinator field, will be transformed. We’re talking sunflower fields, walking trails, educational kiosks, and even biodegradable art installations! [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Delano)] It should become a real jewel of the park.
**Host:** It sounds like a beautiful addition to Ariel-Foundation Park, and a fitting tribute to Delano’s connection to this community.
**Alex Reed:**
Definitely. It’s wonderful to see the city investing in this project and working with the Foundation Park Conservancy and other organizations to bring this vision to life. I think it will be a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
**Host:** I’d imagine so. How do you think this new field will impact the community?
**Alex Reed:** I believe it will offer new recreational opportunities, educational experiences, and a connection to nature. It’s also a reminder of Mount Vernon’s rich history and the contributions of its past residents.
**Host:** Well said. Thank you, Alex Reed, for joining us and sharing your insights on this exciting new development.
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure.