Batavia Historical Society has big plans for Depot Museum

The Batavia Historical Society celebrates Batavia's past, present and future at the kickoff celebration for the Batavia Depot Museum expansion project.

The public can learn about the project and other new programs, including the new History Heroes program for kids at the Depot Museum, at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 12, at the Batavia Public Library, 10 S. Batavia Ave.

"This is such an exciting time for the Depot Museum," said Carla Hill, former Depot director. "The historical society is committed to expanding the museum, resulting in room for new exhibits and new programs."

A special expansion committee has been created to help raise the $2 million need for the project. There are a number of fundraisers planned throughout the year, starting with the "Antiques on Main Sale," scheduled for May 5-6, a "Night at the Museum" scheduled for this summer and an Appraisal Fair planned for the fall.

"These fundraisers will require a large number of volunteers," said Sharon Mitchell, volunteer coordinator. "The volunteer community in Batavia has always been strong. We hope volunteers will make a commitment to this project as well."

When the Depot was dedicated in 1973, almost half of the citizens of Batavia had contributed to the project, through donations of money, and labor.

The Furnas Foundation matched the monetary donations. The Batavia Depot Museum is one of the city's most treasured landmarks, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Batavia Historical Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, plans to raise $2 million for the construction of the expansion, including the linkup to the existing museum.

The theme for the March 12 celebration is "History Happens Here." Attend to hear how exciting Batavia's history is and how you can be a part of its future.

For more information about the project and the Batavia Historical Society, plan to attend the family friendly kickoff celebration at the library or log on to www.bataviahistoricalsociety.org. To donate to the expansion project, send a check to the Batavia Historical Society Expansion Project, P.O. Box 14, Batavia, IL 60510.