photo Canton DAR Quakenbush, Nov.

Nancy Casey, left, presented the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution Conservation Medal to Cynthia Quakenbush of Canton, right, for her work in establishing a butterfly garden in front of the E.J. Noble building on East Main Street in Canton

CANTON -- The Nihanawate Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution recently awarded Cynthia Quakenbush of Canton with the DAR Conservation Medal.

This award is given through local chapters of the NSDAR to volunteers who have made a significant contribution to conservation, youth leadership, park establishment, outstanding efforts at wildlife and nature centers, resource management or education on any student level.

Quakenbush, a retired teacher, and long-time advocate for the monarch butterflies, was recognized at a luncheon of the Nihanwate Chapter at the VFW in Canton, for her creation of a butterfly garden at the E.J. Noble building at 80 E. Main St. in Canton. Although the garden was planted a few years ago, it has been maintained, and the hospital oversees the gardens.

Monarch butterflies had been in decline for several years, but with conservation efforts are starting to make a slight comeback.

She noted at the meeting that she had just received word that the migratory monarchs had made their way to Mexico for the winter, in time to coincide with all Souls Day, Nov. 1. In the Mexican culture, as the monarchs are associated with the souls of departed loved ones.

The Nihanawate Chapter NSDAR was established 1929. The group meets six times a year and fosters patriotism and community support through activities such as tree plantings, a Flag Day program in the local schools, and Constitution Week. Any woman with a proven lineage to a Revolutionary War patriot is eligible to apply for membership in the DAR, and can contact Elaine LaPage, registrar, at elapage@twcny.rr.com.