One of Illinois' historic landmarks is stuggling to get funding for repairs. And the local nonprofit is asking the public for help.
Todd DeDecker, Administrator of the Bishop Hill Heritage Association, says many of the original buildings need improvements to preserve the integrity of the site.
"Repairs keep on being put off time and time again for the buildings owned by the state of Illinois. Well, they need work, they desperately need work. And especially since, in 2021, Bishop Hill is going to celebrate its 175th anniversary" said DeDecker.
One of the buildings in the most need of repair is the Bishop Hill Colony Church.
DeDecker says other historic sites in Illinois get more attention in the press and Bishop Hill is just as significant. He's encouraging people to contact the Department of Natural Resources and ask that more funding go to the Bishop Hill State Historic Site.
The town in Henry County was the home of a colony started by Swedish immigrants in 1846. After disbanding in 1861, the colony left behind 18 buildings that are still standing today. And the National Park Service has designated it as a National Historic Landmark.