CRAWFORDSVILLE ? Indiana University graduate Will Shortz, whose IU degree in enigmatology makes him the only academically accredited puzzlemaster, has donated the land he grew up on in Crawfordsville to the city for development of a nature park. The 47-acre plot, located near the intersection of Ind. 47 and Ind. 32, is on the city's southwest side, according to a news release.
Who is Will Shortz?
Will Shortz is best known as The New York Times crossword puzzle editor. He graduated from IU in 1974 after completing a program he designed in enigmatology, or the study of puzzles. He also has been the puzzle master for NPR's "Weekend Edition Sunday" since it began in 1987. The PBS documentary film "Wordplay" focuses on Shortz's career and the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament he founded and directs.
Podcast with Will Shortz:A Puzzlemaster's Tale: An interview with Will Shortz
Shortz was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha while at IU. Shortz delivered the IU commencement address in 2008. Shortz has also said he intends to donate his large collection of puzzles to IU's Lilly Library where it will enhance the Jerry Slocum Puzzle Room, which opened in 2006.
How will Crawfordsville use the donated land?
Crawfordsville intends to use the land, currently owned by Shortz, on the city's southwest side to develop a puzzle-themed nature park. Preliminary plans call for a public parking area, trails connecting to the Sugar Creek Trail, a small bridge spanning the stream that flows through the property, a sledding hill, and a small picnic area.
The park will be named the Shortz Nature Park in honor of the Shortz family.