Wauconda Township meets where it all started in 1850
The first Wauconda Township meeting is thought to have been in April 1850, in what was then a new brick home near Bangs Lake.
Andrew C. Cook, one of the area's settlers, hosted that historic first gathering where officials were elected. On Wednesday, the current township board will honor that tradition and conduct business in the parlor of the revived Cook home, which stands as link to the early days.
"The story goes that he (Cook) used mud and clay from Bangs Lake," to make the bricks himself, said Township Supervisor Glenn Swanson, a history buff who grew up a half mile away.
Swanson said he didn't pay much attention to the old house at 711 N. Main St. at the time, but later came to appreciate its connection to history.
"These are like directors of the town, guys who wanted to get things up and running," he said of the first township officials.
About two years ago, a partnership with the Wauconda Township Historical Society was forged and the first makeover of the old place in more than 30 years began.
Though additions were made over the years and extensive remodeling done inside, the original structure is intact.
The township board budgeted about $38,000 for renovations, the historical society contributed to the cost of repairs and the exterior was painted through a public service program. The result last August was the grand opening of the refurbished museum, which features a rotating roster of about 2,000 artifacts relating to Wauconda-area history.
"I think it's a compliment to the house, and it's kind of cool to bring it (township meeting) back," said Pat Oaks, president of the historical society. As township assessor, she also will be on hand in an official role for the proceedings.
Wednesday, June 17, has no special significance to the township or history of the home. However, officials some time ago decided to hold their monthly meeting at the Cook house when there was a relatively light agenda and June was chosen as the best time.
"It's a thank-you for the renovation," Swanson said. "Let's showcase the house."
During the regular meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. the board will hear a presentation on mosquito services and vote to retain an auditor among other business. Swanson will give a brief overview of the significance of the event and the history of the home. A special appearance by an actor portraying Andrew C. Cook is planned and house tours will be conducted. Seating is limited. Anyone with special considerations should call Swanson at (847) 526-2631.
The museum is open from 1 to 4 p.m. every other Sunday, and programs and events are held at the facility. However, public interest has been modest and the society is starting a membership drive, according to Oaks. Once thriving, the membership has dwindled to a handful of core members.
"When the historical society first started, there were quite a few (members)," she said. "We've got the house taken care of last year, now it's time to take care of the historical society."