Joint Council of Historic Groups to discuss preservation law's reversal

On Wednesday, April 29, the Joint Council of Historic Groups will hold its spring meeting at 7:30 p.m. at McHenry County Conservation District's Glacial Park Conference Center, 6316 Harts Road, Ringwood.

It was formerly the Frank Howard Estate. Howard was a wealthy industrialist from Chicago and part of the "back to the farm movement" which took hold beginning in the late 1930s.

Many wealthy Chicagoans like Howard were attracted to McHenry County and bought up local farms. This area had desirable property at reasonable prices and was located within commuting distance to the city. Howard raised prize Holsteins.

Lisa DiChiera and Brian Kingsley from the Landmark Preservation Council of Illinois will provide updated information concerning the recent legal defeat of the Chicago Preservation Ordinance. The court ruling may impact preservation ordinances throughout Illinois. The meeting is open to the public.

The Joint Council of Historic Groups consists of county preservation commissions, historical societies and museums, as well as interested individuals who meet twice a year to network and learn more about McHenry County, its history and the efforts being undertaken to preserve sites and structures.

Among other things promoted by the Joint Council members is celebrating May as Preservation Month. Public and historical preservation programs and events are scheduled throughout May.

For information, contact Gloria Mack at (815) 363-1058 or Nancy Fike at (815) 923-2267 or info@mchsonline.org.