Orlando Burrell was 8 years old when his family arrived in Carmi, Illinois. Within two years both his parents were dead. Even at the age of 10 he worked hard. He chopped wood for 25 cents a cord in order to pay for his schooling. When he was older he farmed and learned the carpenter's trade.

In 1859 he, along with 12 other wagons, headed west to make their fortune in gold. He remained in California for 1 year then returned to Carmi. Over the years he had many responsible and respectable jobs.He was an officer in the Civil War, a Judge in the county, Mayor of Carmi, Sheriff for the county and served as U.S. Representative in the 54th Congress for one term. Burrell represented Carmi and White County well in all of these jobs.

In 1921 at the age of 94 Orlando Burrell died. In his will Burrell bequeathed 40 acres of ground to the "town" "for use as a park". Along with the 40 acres he deposited $9000 in the White County Bank (at 2% interest) to provide a fund for the park's maintenance.

Camping Area

Today Burrell Park has 20 campsites with concrete pads, 50 AMP electric hook-up, water and a sanitary sewer.

There is a modern bathhouse with 4 showers each, hand dryers, hair dryers and private dressing areas equipped with handicapped sinks, toilets and showers.

A shelter for picnics is in the camp area and is equipped with grills, electricity and water. There is a primitive campsite area for tent campers as well.

Picnicking Area

There are 5 more shelters in the park that are used for picnicking. Each shelter is equipped with water, electricity and grills for cooking. There are 4 children's play areas near these shelters. Three handicapped restroom facilities are centrally located between picnic areas.

A small fishing pond is available for bank fishing only. The pond is stocked with bass, catfish and bluegill. Just behind the pond and over the bridge is a quiet, peaceful walking trail. This trail, which will bring you just a little closer to nature, is approximately ¼ mile long and not a hard walk for most people.

General Information:

• All the roads through out the park are paved.
• The Carmi Police Department patrols the park.
• Camping open April 15 thru October 15
• Other park areas open year round
• Two miles from City limits
• City owned and operated
• For more information call 382-2693 (7 a..m. – 4:00 p.m. M-F)

We believe that Orlando Burrell would be very proud of the progress and beauty this park has taken over the years. We hope you will visit in person someday but for now enjoy our photo tour of "Burrell's Woods" as it is know to many Carmians.

Above Information provided by: James E. Davis book, "Gentlemen from Illinois " Carmi Public Library White County Historical Society City of Carmi Parks Department Carmi Chamber of Commerce