The Monkey visited Champaign-Urbana, home of the University of Illinois, in November 2002. While there, he dropped by this historic landmark. What historical landmark, you might ask. Well, this small field is the Morrow Plots, the oldest continually used agricultural research site in the United States. The plots were founded in 1876, just eight years after the university itself, as a natural laboratory for experimentation and research in crop rotations, fertilizer usage, soil fertility, and other factors in producing higher yields. Such research at universities in the Midwest "breadbasket" has been instrumental in improving agricultural processes and yields, and thus in feeding the ever-growing population of the United States and the world.

Strawn, Illinois. Population: 150

In order not to cast a shadow on the nearby Morrow Plots (see above), the University of Illinois Library was built underground. Here the Monkey rests on a railing by the subterranean library.

The Monkey watches pre-game warm-ups for an American football game at the University of Illinois' Memorial Stadium, which dates from 1923. College football has a fanatical following in the United States, and at bigger universities the athletic budgets resemble those of professional clubs in other parts of the world.

During his November 2002 trip to Illinois, the Monkey attended the showdown between the University of Illinois Fighting Illini and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Here, he gets a hand up from a supporter as Illinois drives on the Buckeyes. In a close game marred by bad officiating, Illinois lost 23-16 to the eventual national champions.

In Mishawaka, Indiana, the Monkey visits one of the high schools. Near the state border with Michigan, Mishawaka is in an area that locals refer to as Michiana (from the combination of MICHigan and IndIANA).

Home——Region Selector——Special Features——Monkey FAQ——Contact——Links

Copyright monkeytravel.org 2002-2005. The Monkey respects your right to use his photos for your personal, non-profit entertainment or for educational purposes.