By Mindy Brand, Assistant Director of Annual Fund and Programs While going through the University of Illinois Recreation, Sport, and Tourism Master’s program last year, I found that people are very curious about what it means to study recreation. It turns out that the word “recreation” actually means a lot. And not just abstractly - it means a lot to your life. The verb form of the word may shed some light: to “recreate” is something we all do regularly, whether we realize it or not. We … [Read more...] about Recreation for All
Wildflower Watch: March 16, 2021
Hepatica, snow trillium, and bluebells are making an appearance this week! There's nothing like the thrill of discovering the first Spring wildflowers on a hike - and this weekend will be the perfect time to get out and explore. … [Read more...] about Wildflower Watch: March 16, 2021
Since 1946: 75 Years of Allerton… 75 Years of You!
Although it existed as a private estate for many years prior, the story of Allerton Park as we know it began in 1946. That year, Robert Allerton generously donated his home and surrounding property to the University of Illinois. For the first time, the public was welcome to visit this vast, unforgettable landscape, and the story of Allerton Park and Retreat Center began…. continue reading here. … [Read more...] about Since 1946: 75 Years of Allerton… 75 Years of You!
Fall 2021 Artist-In-Residence Application Open Now!
Inviting artists to live and create at Allerton Park and Retreat Center will recreate the intimate experience Robert Allerton provided his guests. We are excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for the Fall 2021 residency! Residencies of two to six weeks will allow uninterrupted time for artists to explore their ideas, immerse themselves in the serene surroundings of the Park, and engage with our central Illinois communities. Sculptors, photographers, painters, printmakers, … [Read more...] about Fall 2021 Artist-In-Residence Application Open Now!
Forestry Mulcher 2021
For the last month, Natural Areas Manager Alex has been spending his days with this "beast"! Thanks to support from our Friends of Allerton, we were able to once again rent a forestry mulcher and implement intensive invasive species management. Alex cleared areas that were overtaken with multiflora rose, privet, and bittersweet, which will allow us access to introduce prescribed fire and spot spraying in an effort to control these invasive species. Find previous "before & after" photos … [Read more...] about Forestry Mulcher 2021
2021 Retreat + Review: From the Director
I’m generally an optimistic person, but identifying the positive aspects of the past year was more difficult than I had hoped it would be. As has been the case for so many, 2020 was a year of inconceivable challenges. However, one positive for us has been the growth of community. We, the Allerton supporters, have stuck together. We linked arms, faced our convictions, and proved that we will not waiver in the face of adversity. It has been said that true growth only occurs with true hardships. … [Read more...] about 2021 Retreat + Review: From the Director
2021 Retreat & Review
Allerton's Annual Retreat & Review takes a look at the Park's progress and highlights from the last year, along with exciting updates for the future! This year's edition features the many ways Allerton has navigated the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic (including our top 10 creative moments of 2020!), Mansion updates, social media engagement, donor funded projects, and so much more. Click here to read it now! … [Read more...] about 2021 Retreat & Review
Interview with John Bannon
We recently announced that Allerton’s inaugural In Residence Program would begin this winter, thanks to generous donations from donors, Joan and Peter Hood and Dana Brehm and Larry Baumann. (Read the full announcement here.) This March, John E. Bannon, Chicago-based multimedia artist/educator and University of Illinois alumnus, will begin his journey as the inaugural resident, living on-site to fully engage with and seek inspiration from the art, history, and nature of Allerton Park. Bannon … [Read more...] about Interview with John Bannon