John F. Lacey: Champion for Birds and Wildlife
Lacy Bird Act of 1900

---

Lacey's daughter, Berenice, shared a story about how her father won support for his bird act in the House. Representative "Uncle Joe" Cannon, of Illinois, a very powerful member of the House, was prepared to derail Lacey's bill any way he could. Lacey knew that Uncle Joe loved apples. So he filled his pockets with beautiful apples except they all had worm holes. Lacey then gave some of the apples to Mr. Cannon and asked him if he remembered there being many worm eaten apples when he was a boy. Uncle Joe replied that it was only a recent phenomenon. Lacey explained to Uncle Joe that it was the killing of so many birds which ate the worms that caused the condition. This was enough to convince Uncle Joe and he removed his objections to Lacey's bill. The Major demonstrated his wit in staging such a sly performance.

Return to main page

For more information, e-mail Cathy Engstrom, director of communications, or call (515) 288-1846.