Rathje Drive

The David J. and Debra C. Rathje Allerton Mansion Grand Entrance Drive was completed in October 2018, and creates a more prominent, accessible vehicular entry to Allerton’s Mansion. The 22-foot wide concrete driveway runs along the current Gate House carriage lane where Robert Allerton’s guests would have historically approached the Mansion. In addition to encouraging visitors to stop in and find out what Allerton has to offer, the entrance reinstates the “celebratory approach” that Robert’s guests would have experienced upon arrival.

This long-awaited Park improvement was made possible thanks to a gift from David and Debbie Rathje, of Decatur. Their gift ensures the Allerton Mansion is accessible and welcoming to all, and will be appreciated by countless visitors for years to come.