I did some research on the MRF using an SIUE History Site. I also had a fascinating discussion with SIUE music professor Rick Haydon about the festival. He remembers the first and last concerts at the amphitheater. He even performed there. Many of the gaps in the information below were filled in thanks to Mr. Haydon's recollection of the experience.

For current-day pictures of the area, check out my photos on Trip 6 and Trip 8.

Points of interest:

1.) The New Poag Road outlet was the back entrance for utility vehicles.

2.) Pine trees were planted at the time for ambience.

3.) The grass paths are now basically for Cross Country students – These are the only spots that have been maintained since the festival.

4.) Parking for the festival was in the model airplane field.

5.) There were turnsyles here to get into the festival.

6.) All the barb wire I found here used to be set up around the perimeter to keep out gatecrashers. The cost of admission was $3.00.

7.) The fenced compound here was a small power plant that powered the festival.

8.) The abandoned lot here was Ground Zero at the festival. This is where the main amphitheater and stage were located. The iron poles I found were used as the main posts to hold up the amphitheater. From the old pictures, they appeared to hold lighting equipment as well.

9.) The bike trails were added after the facilities were shut down.

Back to Trip 8

Back to Trails of SIUE

This page created by Todd Astroth @ SIUE.

Last updated: December 18, 2008 (for you MLA users out there!)