For Neal Eckstein, a love of nature was passed down like a treasured heirloom. His earliest memories of birdwatching began with his grandfather, “Doc” Eckstein, a lifelong member and devoted volunteer of Cincinnati Nature Center for 47 years. Together, they roamed trails, identified birds, and nurtured a shared passion for the outdoors.
“My grandpa cared about nothing more than teaching kids about nature,” Neal recalls. From spotting a Baltimore oriole as a second grader to recording bird sightings in his first journal, Neal’s journey reflects a lifelong connection to the natural world.
Doc’s daughter Marcia Eckstein has similar memories, growing up with her dad’s influence. “We hiked, fished, ice skated, bird watched, and swam everywhere we could. Nature was our biggest toy. Even now, when I see a bird I can’t identify, my first thought is to call Dad.”
Doc’s respect for nature inspired his family, but it also inspired the students he guided on hikes and taught in classes at the Nature Center. In fact, Neal said his grandfather was happiest when leading schoolchildren on Nature Center field trips.
Neal fondly remembers the moment birds first captured his attention. “I was 7 or 8 when I spotted a Baltimore Oriole. It’s still one of my favorite birds. I called my grandpa, and he helped me identify it and encouraged me to record sightings.”
He still has that first birding journal, worn from years of use, filled with records of his adventures across Ohio and the Appalachian region with his grandfather and his Nature Center friends. “I was told I was the youngest birder in the Cincinnati Birders Club,” Neal says, recalling those early expeditions.
Even today, Neal’s passion for birds remains. “Last week, my wife and I were here and spotted a red-headed woodpecker. It was beautiful.”
The Eckstein family’s connection to Cincinnati Nature Center spans generations. Doc and his wife Fran had nearly 30 grandchildren, many of whom remain involved with the Nature Center.
“Dad loved getting his hands dirty in the earth,” Marcia said. “And Mom captured it in her paintings.” Fran’s watercolors of birds, trees, and nature scenes are cherished reminders of her artistic eye and love for the outdoors.
In honor of Doc and Fran’s 50th wedding anniversary, the family dedicated a bench on the Geology Trail overlooking a creek. When Doc passed away in 2017, the family gathered there to honor his memory with a photo on the bench.
Marcia remembers that day, “I just tried to put one foot in front of the other and moved forward. Dad and Mom’s DNA is all over Rowe Woods. That day, I only felt safety, peace, and warm memories.”
“Grandma and Grandpa would be proud that we’re continuing to be a part of this special place,” Neal shares.
