Get a taste of city's history on Geneva tours
The city of Geneva will embrace connections to its past with special recognitions and programs in May to coincide with Historic Preservation Month.
Geneva's Historic Preservation Commission is tasked with preserving historic structures that define the history and culture of the Geneva community.
The commission has put together a self-guided walking tour of 15 significant places along Third and State streets in downtown Geneva. Posters at all locations share a historic image of the property as well as a QR code, which, when scanned with a smartphone, will direct users to additional historical information.
The tour is available throughout May, and a map of tour sites is available on the city's website at geneva.il.us.
The city will honor 11 distinctive Geneva properties during the 2014 Historic Preservation Awards presentation on Monday, May 19.
The awards, which are presented biennially, recognize local property owners who exemplify the objectives of historic preservation. The awards will be handed out by Mayor Kevin Burns during a city council meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. May 19, in city hall council chambers, 109 James St.
During the same meeting, the city also will acknowledge the winning entries in the "Wood, Brick & Stone: Seeing & Celebrating Geneva's Historic Details" photo contest. The contest is sponsored by the Historic Preservation Commission.
Local history enthusiasts might enjoy the Geneva History Center's Central Historic District Walking Tour Mobile App that can be downloaded at genevahistorycenter.org. The app, which is $2.99, is available for iPhone or iPad users.
Preservation Partners of Fox Valley also will be hosting a variety of activities during the next two months, including:
Guided Walking Tour of 15 Significant Places: A guided tour will provide an in-depth look at the important properties identified by the Geneva Historic Preservation Commission. The tour will step off at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 29 from the courtyard at Dodson Place, Third and Fulton streets.
"This Place Matters" Voting: Participants can start voting online Thursday, June 12, for their three favorite places that matter. Yellow signs will identify significant - but sometimes overlooked - historically important sites throughout the Tri-Cities.
"This Place Matters, Off the Beaten Path" Bus Tour: Showcasing 24 sites, as well as some "bonus buildings," the bus tour will take place from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28. Reservations are required and can be placed via email at safanda@ppfv.org in advance. Tickets are $30, and seating is limited.
For more information about Preservation Partners of Fox Valley, visit ppfv.org or call (630) 377-6424.