"Michael Westjohn is sure his father would have enjoyed every aspect of Allerton Park, from his love of the outdoors to his knowledge as a construction man. 'Dad was a builder. He would have wanted to see how that mansion held up all those slate tiles on that roof,' Westjohn told a patio party gathering at Allerton Park on May 9, where he dedicated a gift to the park in memory of his parents, the late Henry and Elizabeth Westjohn. Westjohn's father built churches, post offices and bank … [Read more...] about Donation upgrades Allerton patio
Help Replant the historic Evergreen Allée
The historic Old Levy Road Evergreen Allée at the South Entrance of Allerton Park is getting a fresh start - and you can help! Support the purchase, planting, and watering for one Evergreen tree for $225 each. Click here to lend your support! (Please note "Evergreen Tree Project" under "Why I gave today") Read more about this restoration project here. THANK YOU TO THE FRIENDS OF ALLERTON WHO HAVE HELPED FUND THIS MUCH-NEEDED RESTORATION: Wendy and Gus Schupmann Danda and Dennis … [Read more...] about Help Replant the historic Evergreen Allée
Allerton Spring Break
Allerton Spring Break (ASB) is in full swing! Nine local college students are staying at the Park this week, helping with some much needed projects (mulching flower beds, stacking firewood, and more) while also discovering, exploring, and making memories in Allerton Park. … [Read more...] about Allerton Spring Break
Room 5 Rehab: Floor Edition
The original hardwood floor in Robert Allerton's room recently received a makeover - complete with sanding and a new stain. With an increase in lodging over the past couple years, our sales department has begun to focus more on this specific guest experience – ensuring there are comfortable and consistent amenities, along with tasteful and thoughtful décor. Slowly but surely, we are starting to return Mansion guest rooms to a historic, yet functional era. Read more details and future plans … [Read more...] about Room 5 Rehab: Floor Edition
Triangle Parterre Garden Renovation Update
New life is being given to the Triangle Parterre Garden, thanks to a generous donation from Dana Brehm and Larry Baumann, in remembrance of their sibling and brother-in-law, Barry Brehm (U of I Accountancy ‘76). The donation in memory of Barry will fund a complete renovation, and provide an endowment for the long-term care and maintenance of the Garden. Previously, the Triangle Parterre Garden had grown out of scale, and the intended look and feel that Robert Allerton had for the space … [Read more...] about Triangle Parterre Garden Renovation Update
Archaeological Work at Allerton
AN EXCERPT FROM ALLERTON'S 2019 RETREAT & REVIEW | "ARCHAEOLOGICAL WORK AT ALLERTON" BY NATE BECCUE, NATURAL AREAS MANAGER Allerton is home to a group of mounds now called ‘Samuel’s Mounds,’ named after Robert Allerton’s father. Samuel’s Mounds consist of ten mounds thought to date to the Late Woodland Period, roughly 1,000 years ago. Mound groups like these were likely abundant up and down the Sangamon River pre-settlement, but unfortunately most mounds have been destroyed … [Read more...] about Archaeological Work at Allerton
The Power of Many
AN EXCERPT FROM ALLERTON'S 2019 RETREAT & REVIEW | "THE POWER OF MANY" BY BRIDGET FRERICHS, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT One of the best parts of my job is talking with people about their personal Allerton story. It is such a unique place that holds fond memories and significance for so many. From first dates in the Meadow to exchanging vows in the gazebo... Finding peace after a traumatic experience, or being inspired to pursue a career protecting our natural resources. … [Read more...] about The Power of Many
Double the Campers, Double the Fun
AN EXCERPT FROM ALLERTON'S 2019 RETREAT & REVIEW | "DOUBLE THE CAMPERS, DOUBLE THE FUN" BY MINDY BRAND, PUBLIC OUTREACH COORDINATOR Last summer saw a significant expansion of Allerton Day Camp, increasing the total number of campers accommodated from 70 to 143. Families from surrounding communities jumped at the chance to have more Allerton in their lives. If we could have predicted what an excellent summer it was going to be, we would have expanded camp long ago! By all … [Read more...] about Double the Campers, Double the Fun