Plans set for
Interior Renovation
Our next project goal is to provide public access
inside the 1846 Blodgett House, in this way enhancing its ability to tell
the story of Downers Grove’s heritage, the Underground Railroad and the
Blodgett family.
An
engineering study showed that reinforcements for the floor supports
were needed to ensure the safety of members of the public who visit the
House. The required structural work was completed in March 2014 under a
contract let by the Park District.
Conceptual plans have been developed for interior
renovation of the 1846 Blodgett House as explained on the Project Plan page of this site. This
exciting new approach to the interior build out was presented and
enthusiastically endorsed by the Park Board. DGHPC and the Park
District Staff will work with a historic-restoration architect and
exhibit designer to prepare specific plans and to obtain construction
and occupancy permits from the Village authorities.
Check out
the Photo gallery
for Renovation Progress
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The
1846 Blodgett House was built by Israel and Avis Blodgett. Not only
does the house have architectural historical significance as the second
or third oldest house in the Village, but it also has great
cultural significance as an active stopover point on the Underground
Railroad. The Downers Grove Heritage Preservation Corporation has been
founded with a mission to save and restore this historic house and
create a museum focusing on the underground railroad. click here to learn more
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1846 Blodgett House Overview
Now that the 1846
Blodgett House has now been restored to its mid-19th Century
appearance, Commissioners
of
the Downers Grove Park District have accepted ownership of the House
and terminated the District's lease agreement with the Heritage
Preservation Corporation.
At
the Park Board meeting on January 19, 2012, President Charley
Smart expressed gratitude to the Park District and the whole community
for their great support. He also presented our group's donation
to the Park District of $5,000 to help with interior renovation efforts
and spoke about our continuing volunteer involvement in this
project.
The Park District was advised in August 2012 that
it has been awarded a new project grant of $15,000 for all costs
associated with Phase 1 of the Blodgett House Renovation and other
capital improvements. This grant from the Build Illinois Bond Fund is
authorized by legislation first approved in 2009. Park District staff
members are currently completing the paperwork associated with this
very useful and timely grant.
A
generous donation by the Illinois State Questers has been matched with
$2,000 in Park District
funds thereby making possible the recent installation of three exterior
signs for the 1846 Blodgett House. Two of these new displays are
pictured below. Next time you come to Wandschneider Park be sure
to look for this informative signage.
 
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Updated July 5, 2014
Site
created, designed, and managed courtesy of Corridor Communication
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A Centennial Home
The 1846 Blodgett House was
honored as a Centennial Home by the Downers Grove
Historical Society on Founders Day 2014.
Blodgett House Details
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