Barham Family Tree Project
From the very beginning, Gaylon Barham was one of the Fox Lake Preservation Foundation’s most dedicated and generous supporters. He gave his time, energy, and resources wholeheartedly—from the Foundation’s inception to the end of his life. His passion for preserving both the natural beauty and the rich African American heritage of Fox Lake never wavered.Even in passing, Gaylon continues to champion this place he loved so deeply. In his memory, the Foundation is launching a special initiative to honor his legacy.On Foundation-owned property stands a large, old cottonwood tree—once proud, now burned and worn with age. This tree has been carefully tended for years, but its time has come. In Gaylon’s spirit of renewal and stewardship, we hope to remove the damaged tree and replace it with a native species more fitting to the landscape.With your donation, we will create a serene, welcoming space where passersby can take in the view of the lake, read the historical marker recognizing Fox Lake’s inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places for its African American heritage, and reflect in peace.Please help us continue Gaylon’s work. His vision lives on through all of us.