In 1869, Justice of the Peace, L. B. Adams purchased a home and surrounding acreage in Springfield, Illinois, from Rev. Simeon W. Harkey, President of Illinois State University. Miss Margery Adams was born in 1897 to L. B. Adams’ son James and would continue to live on this property for the next 86 years until her death in 1983.

Upon her death, Miss Margery Adams donated her homestead and surrounding woodlands to the Illinois Audubon Society.

The Society's goal at the Margery Adams Wildlife Sanctuary is its use as an urban nature center. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset.

Miss Margery Adams relaxing on the front porch, overlooking Clear Lake Avenue