Allerton

Park & Retreat Center

Since 1946: Story Scrapbook

Becky P.: Since 1971

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My love of Allerton Park began my junior, 1971, at Galesburg Senior High School. I was fortunate to have several supportive art teachers that were determined I would submit drawings for a Allerton summer art camp scholorship given by our local Junior Women's Club. I was one of the lucky few chosen to attend that July in 1971. The girls stayed in the mansion, the boys at House in the Woods. It was a very memorable time for me. Around 1995 I chaperones my son's class trip to Allerton (my 1st time … [Read more...] about Becky P.: Since 1971

Dave B: Since 1963

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I am the retired Director of the Career Center at the University of Illinois. In the middle 70's we invited colleagues on other Big Ten and U of Chicago campuses to join us for a conference at Allerton. Actually, we planned a revolution in our field. Previously, "Placement" offices only dealt with seniors and alumni. This gathering was to compare notes on the efforts of several offices, including and especially Illinois, who were working with undergrads to start career planning and preparation … [Read more...] about Dave B: Since 1963

Nick H

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I grew up coming to Allerton year round. I have memories of being a child and walking to the "ends of the earth" where there was a giant sunken garden. As time went by my family frequented and in middle school we would come and be set free to explore the woods and play the most excellent games of hide and seek. In high school and college I would come for hikes and trail running by myself or with friends. When I met my best friend and decided to ask if she would marry me, the Gazeboo … [Read more...] about Nick H

Chad B: Since 1974

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I proposed to my wife at Allerton Park on Good Friday in 1996. We were at the top of the stairwell to the Sunken Garden. 25 years later, that was clearly the most important question I’ve ever asked anyone. Best part, of course, is that Debbie said “yes”. Having been born and raised in Monticello, Allerton Park has always been a treasure to me with many fond memories. Visit the Since 1946 homepage here. Share your story here. … [Read more...] about Chad B: Since 1974

Bethany O: Since 1995

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My grandparents liked to take my two siblings and me to different places around the area. I remember being about 7 or 8 and visiting Allerton with them, and my grandma explaining to me that the Fu Dogs were from China. I was fascinated by everything, but distinctly remember the Fu dogs because I thought she meant tofu dogs. I thought we were in the real-life Secret Garden. My mom and grandma made a comment about someday maybe I could get married in the park since I loved it so much. I did, on … [Read more...] about Bethany O: Since 1995

Cam S: Since 1990

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Growing up in Milmine, Allerton Park was just a hop, skip, and a jump away. A childhood babysitter introduced me to Allerton Park and the mansion. Spending time at the Sangamon River and Hogchute Bridge is something I will always cherish. My sister spent many years working as part of the catering staff and was instrumental in hiring me and my wife (then-girlfriend). We spent a number of years working in the kitchen, catering many conferences and weddings. Thanks to a series of events and awesome … [Read more...] about Cam S: Since 1990

Claire S: Since 1952

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I grew up in Central Illinois several miles south of Decatur. From the time I was 4 or 5, my family visited Allerton often on Sunday afternoons. We would walk all of the paths in the area near the house. My favorites were the Garden of the Fu Dogs, and the formal privet hedge maze paths. We drove out to the Sun Singer many times, and even walked out there a couple of times. We usually didn't bring food, but would just walk the paths looking at the flowers and trees, and rediscovering the statues … [Read more...] about Claire S: Since 1952