Landmarks Illinois Names Top 40 Preservation Projects in Past 40 Years
By Chuck Sudo in News on Aug 4, 2011 6:20PM
The Landmarks Illinois released its list of the 40 most significant preservation accomplishments the organization has been involved with since its 1971 formation (the list is here in PDF format).
It's an impressive list that highlights the range of landmark buildings saved across Illinois and the dedication of Landmarks Illinois to its mission. Among the local projects included on their list are the saving of the Chicago Theatre from demolition in 1985 when the city bought it and provided a preservation easement to Landmarks Illinois; the 2002 restorations of the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and Humboldt Park Boathouse; local landmark designation of the Historic Michigan Boulevard District; the preservation and relocation -- over an "L" track -- of the Henry Clarke House and Museum to the Historic Prairie District (pictured above); the frenzied fundraising campaign to save Holy family Church from demolition in 1990; and successfully lobbying for nine buildings in Bronzeville to be preserved as a local landmark.