Des Plaines History Center to dedicate streetlamp for late leader

The Des Plaines History Center will dedicate a relic of local history in honor of its late executive director.

An early 20th century streetlamp will be installed soon at the front steps of the Kinder House and dedicated in memory of Shari Caine, who died in March at 52, after a battle with cancer.

A ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 19, at the start of the History Center's second annual picnic.

The center received the historic lamp - of which many were scattered throughout downtown Des Plaines streets and the train platform - earlier this year from a donor, said Philip Mohr, who was appointed executive director in May.

"At the same time we were looking to restore the lamp, we were looking at a way to memorialize Shari," Mohr said.

The streetlamp was restored, with its old wires pulled out and new wiring threaded through by the Des Plaines Park District. JB Metal Works sanded down and repainted the pole.

The lamp would have housed an Edison incandescent light bulb back in the day, but a vintage-style LED bulb that looks similar will be used, Mohr said.

The history center's picnic lunch next month, featuring fried chicken, mashed potatoes and a vegetable, runs until 4 p.m. and costs $15; free for kids younger than 10. Tickets are available at the center, 781 Pearson St.

The picnic also will include entertainment from folk singer Bucky Halker and games.