Jim Holden, born on December 6, 1939, in Erie, Pennsylvania, was a passionate advocate for outdoor recreation and tourism in Pennsylvania. A longtime resident of Franklin, Venango County, Jim dedicated his life to promoting and preserving the region’s natural beauty. He passed away on November 9, 2013, at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy of environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Jim’s deep love for the outdoors fueled his tireless efforts to protect and enhance the environment for future generations. As a co-founder of the Allegheny Valley Trails Association, he played a pivotal role in the Rails-to-Trails movement during the early 1990s.
This initiative transformed abandoned railways into accessible recreational trails, providing the public with spaces to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
In addition to his work with the Trails Association, Jim co-founded and served as vice president of the Allegheny Valley Conservancy. His passion for cycling contributed to Franklin’s national recognition as a “Bicycle Friendly Town,” a distinction he took great pride in.
Jim’s contributions were widely recognized. In 1994, the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce named him “Man of the Year,” and in 2006, he received the prestigious Bailey Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to the Frenchcreek Watershed. In 2012, the Izaak Walton League inducted him into the Venango County Conservation Hall of Fame.
Jim Holden believed that the region’s recreational resources held untapped potential to benefit both the community and the local economy. His life’s work was dedicated to this, and his legacy continues to inspire efforts to preserve and promote outdoor recreation in the area.
We were proud to create such an honorable plaque for such an icon in our community. What a difference he made.
