History of the Heartland announces 7th annual Historic Preservation Week

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — History of the Heartland is preparing to host their 7th annual Historic Preservation Week in May.

History of the Heartland is a Decatur based non-profit with the mission of preservation of the city's historic structures, homes and stories.

The Historic Preservation Week will be from May 16-22.

The first event will be the History Showcase Saturday on May 16th, which will feature different historical venues with their own events throughout Decatur.

"This is our annual time we really give extra promotion for all of our consortium members that includes: Millikin Homestead, Gov. Oglesby's Mansion, the Mueller and Staley Museums, Culver House and Macon County Museum and more," said event coordinator Ayn Owens. "This event was created to showcase that history happens in Decatur."

The non-profit said most events are free and open to the public, with donations accepted at each venue.

Sunday, May 17th will feature four major churches in downtown Decatur open from 1-4 p.m. for the "Stained-Glass Stories Tour."

History of the Heartland said there will also be a self-guided downtown historical sites tour and a self-guided tour featuring artwork in downtown Decatur that can be done during the week.

"Traditionally, we offer an opportunity for people to participate in self-guided tours," said History of the Heartland Chairman Bret Robertson. "This year, the tours will be posted on our History of the Heartland Facebook page on May 16th."

Towards the end of the week, the organization will sponsor their 6th annual Living Legends event on Thursday, May 21 at Doherty's in downtown Decatur. According to the non-profit, the event will feature former St. Teresa football players, coaches and announcers. Any former members interested in attending and sharing their story is asked to call 217-791-1385.

More information on the Historic Preservation Week can be found on History of the Heartland's Facebook page.