Kankakee Times

Landmarks Illinois, a nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation, has announced that nominations are now open for its 2024 Most Endangered Historic Places list. The deadline for submitting nominations is January 12, 2024.

The Most Endangered Historic Places list is an annual initiative by Landmarks Illinois to raise awareness about threatened historic sites in the state. It serves as a call to action for communities, organizations, and individuals to come together and work towards preserving these important landmarks.

According to Landmarks Illinois, any property in Illinois that is at risk of demolition, deterioration, or significant alteration can be nominated for the list. This includes buildings, structures, landscapes, and other sites that hold historical, architectural, or cultural significance.

"We encourage everyone who knows of a historic place under threat to submit a nomination," said Bonnie McDonald, President and CEO of Landmarks Illinois. "By highlighting these endangered sites, we can bring attention to their value and mobilize support for their preservation."

Landmarks Illinois has been compiling the Most Endangered Historic Places list since 1995. Over the years, the list has played a crucial role in saving numerous historic sites from destruction. It has also served as a catalyst for community engagement and advocacy.

"The Most Endangered Historic Places list is a powerful tool to raise public awareness and rally support for preservation efforts," said McDonald. "It has proven to be an effective way to save our state's heritage."

The selection process for the 2024 list will be rigorous and thorough. Nominations will be evaluated based on their historical and architectural significance, the level of threat they face, and the potential for preservation and reuse.

Once the nominations are submitted, Landmarks Illinois will convene a panel of experts to review and assess each nomination. The final list of the 2024 Most Endangered Historic Places will be unveiled later in the year.

In addition to raising awareness, the Most Endangered Historic Places list also provides opportunities for advocacy and funding. Landmarks Illinois works closely with property owners, local communities, and preservation organizations to develop strategies for saving these endangered sites.

"We believe that every historic place has a story to tell and deserves a chance to be preserved," McDonald added. "Through our advocacy and collaboration efforts, we hope to ensure a future where these important landmarks can continue to enrich our communities."

To learn more about the nomination process and submit a nomination for Landmarks Illinois' 2024 Most Endangered Historic Places list, interested individuals can visit the organization's website.

The deadline for submitting nominations is January 12, 2024. Together, we can make a difference in preserving Illinois' rich history and heritage.

Click this link to access more information: https://rephaas.com/2023/12/14/historic-preservation/