Conservation Corner: June 10, 2002

Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery To Have Centennial Celebration
by James L. Cummins

On Saturday, June 15, 2002 the Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery in Tupelo will have its "Centennial Celebration."

Established in 1902, the Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery is one of the oldest warm water fish hatcheries in the United States. The hatchery currently is involved in the restoration and recovery of a variety of fish species throughout the United States. In addition to the work being done with imperiled species, the hatchery continues to fulfill its longstanding tradition of producing largemouth bass, bluegill bream, redear sunfish and channel catfish. The production and stocking of these fish is credited to the efforts of Congressman "Private" John Allen of Mississippi's first congressional district. In 1982, the name of the hatchery was changed to the Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery in honor of this historic Mississippi congressman.

If those who have followed Private John Allen were asked the question, "Which was the most famous of his speeches?" they would state, "His Fish Hatchery Speech." On February 20, 1901, before the U.S. House of Representatives, the Congressman delivered an eloquent speech in mock-seriousness proposing Tupelo as a site for a National Fish Hatchery. It is regarded as "the most spontaneous burst of wit and humor ever heard on the floors of Congress." The U.S. House of Representatives was in a continuous roar of laughter during it. This speech resulted in the establishment of the hatchery at Tupelo.

One of my favorite quotes is from this famous speech before Congress in which Congressman Allen stated, "This, Mr. Chairman, is a proposition to establish there (Tupelo) a fish hatchery. We have the ideal place for a fish hatchery. Why, sir, fish will travel over land for miles to get into the water we have at Tupelo. Thousands and millions of unborn fish are clamoring to this Congress today for an opportunity to be hatched at the Tupelo hatchery."

The Centennial Celebration promises to be an exciting day for the hatchery and Northeast Mississippi. They plan to showcase fish and wildlife displays and provide recreational opportunities and fishing events for the public. A large turnout is expected.

As part of the celebration, U.S. Senator Thad Cochran will speak on behalf of the hatcheries' importance to the State of Mississippi and also assist in the presentation of prizes for the winners of their "Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo." The fishing events will begin at 8:00 AM with the Award Ceremony to follow at 11 AM. All activities will take place at the Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery, located at 111 Elizabeth Street, Tupelo, Mississippi. They anticipate that several Federal, State and Regional officials will join them at the ceremony. For more information, call (662) 842-1341.

James L. Cummins is Executive Director of the Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Foundation in Stoneville, Mississippi. Known as "Wildlife Mississippi," the Foundation is a non-profit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore and enhance fish, wildlife and plant resources throughout Mississippi