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Photos: 94‑year‑old Starved Rock volunteer celebrates birthday after 10,000 hours of service

By Scott Anderson
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Rachel Mershon 94 of Granville, smiles while working behind the desk of the Starved Rock Bookstore on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025 inside the Starved Rock Visitors Center. Mershon turned 94 years-old and the staff celebrated her birthday with cake and cupcakes. Merschon drives to the Visitors Center every Monday to volunteer at the park ever since the bookstore opened in 2003. She has logged nearly 10,000 hours volunteering at the park.

Rachel Mershon 94 of Granville, smiles while working behind the desk of the Starved Rock Bookstore on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025 inside the Starved Rock Visitors Center. Mershon turned 94 years-old and the staff celebrated her birthday with cake and cupcakes. Mershon drives to the Visitors Center every Monday to volunteer at the park ever since the bookstore opened in 2003. She has logged nearly 10,000 hours volunteering at the park. (Scott Anderson)

Starved RockPutnam County
Scott Anderson

Scott Anderson

Over 15 years covering news, sports and events in the Illinois Valley. Support my work with a digital subscription.