Douglas-Hart Foundation

The Douglas-Hart Foundation was established in 1963 by Helen Douglas-Hart. A Coles County native, Helen was passionate about nature, gardens, and farms. Helen's first endeavor was establishing Friendship Garden in 1963. Helen adored English Tea Gardens and wanted to replicate such gardens in Mattoon. A few years later she established the Douglas-Hart Nature Center by converting 30 acres of farmland into natural habitats. This included planting 10,000 trees in the first few years. Today the nature center is 60 acres of groomed trails, nature play area, picnic area, and other amenities. The visitor center is open daily and offers ample programming throughout the year.