Mission
Through land preservation, natural science research, and educational programs and events, the Stanton Bird Club seeks to protect birds and other wildlife and foster an appreciation and respect for the natural world.
History
The Stanton Bird Club was founded in 1919 and named in honor of Dr. Jonathan Y. Stanton, a professor at Bates College in Lewiston. “Uncle Johnny” was much beloved on the Bates College campus. Among other subjects, he taught ornithology and took not only Bates students, but community members on birding outings. The Stanton Bird Club was organized a year, almost to the day, following his death.
From the beginning, club founders had the goal of creating a sanctuary for the protection of birds and other wildlife. Over its hundred year history, a number of parcels of land were donated to or purchased by the Club.The initial gift of 45 acres in 1921 led to the creation of the Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary which now encompasses 450 acres. The Club also owns and manages the 401 acre Woodbury Bird Sanctuary in Monmouth.
As an all-volunteer organization, membership dues directly support all aspects of running the Stanton Bird Club, from land conservation and stewardship to trail maintenance and educational programming. A Board of Directors oversees the Club’s finances and activities.
All of the Club’s historical information is stored at the Muskie Archives at Bates College.