On Saturday, May 22, Ijams Nature Center will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Ijams family's dedication to scouting, nature and family on the Ijams property.

The Ijams Founder's Day, featuring a new exhibit on the Ijams Family Legacy, features programs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and a cookout from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $3 for non-members and $2 for Ijams members. To register, call 577-4717, ext. 10.

The original 16-acre property was obtained by the Ijams family in 1910 and they welcomed birdwatchers and Girl Scouts who held camps on the site. In 1965, the City of Knoxville, with the help of the Knoxville Garden Club and the Knox County Council of Garden Clubs, purchased the property from the Ijams daughters.

Today, the property serves as a 275-acre wildlife sanctuary and environmental learning center just three miles from Downtown Knoxville. The City of Knoxville owns the majority of the property though the Ijams Nature Center is a non-profit organization managed by the Ijams Board.

Paul James, Executive Director, has written the book, Ijams Nature Center, which will be released officially on Monday, May 17. James will be on site Saturday to sign copies at the Founder's Day event.

Ijams Nature Center is holding a variety of events and programs in celebration of its 100th anniversary. For more information including a complete schedule and description of events, please visit www.ijams.org or call Sally Judiscak at 865-577-4717.