Big Oaks Conservation Society to Host Ice Cream Social at Oakdale Schoolhouse

The social will be held around the old schoolhouse located on refuge property

Join the Big Oaks Conservation Society and Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge on Monday, August 4, 2025, for an old-fashioned Ice Cream Social. The event will take place at the historic Oakdale Schoolhouse beginning at 5:00 pm with short walking tours of this historic landmark before the serving of dessert. Homemade ice cream and desserts will be served.

Oakdale School is a one room stone schoolhouse built in 1869. It is located on Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge, which is overlaid on the closed Jefferson Proving Grounds. The school will be open for tours and viewing at the event. To attend the event, follow the brown directional signs to the refuge office off Highway 421. Additional signs will direct visitors to Oakdale Schoolhouse, which is located on Paper Mill Road (Morgan Road on the refuge).

For more information on the Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service visit http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ ; for information about Big Oaks NWR visit http://www.fws.gov/refuge/big-oaks/.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.