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A proclamation by Mayor Theresa McShan during last week’s Elgin City Council meeting established May as Historic Preservation Month, just as the Mary Christian Burleson Foundation topped off renovations on Elgin’s longest standing residence.
Leaders of the MCB foundation, Main Street Board, Elgin Historical Association and oher city organizations were recognized May 7 for their contributions and dedication to the preservation of Elgin’s storied history.
“Historic preservation is an effective tool for communities across the nation for managing growth and sustainable development, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride and maintaining community character, while enhancing livability,” McShan said to a full room.
MCB Foundation Board President Jake Carter took the moment to thank the city for its support on behalf of Elgin’s many dedicated groups.
Exterior renovations on Mary’s homestead were finished earlier this month, through the hard work of volunteers and generous support of council members, according to Carter.
“Saying that it was in a poor state of repair might be a little generous, it was basically a pile of sticks,” Carter said. “For all practical purposes Mary’s homestead has been saved, and we’ve also saved the stories that go along with it.”
Mary’s homestead, at 117 Louise St., dates as far back as 1840 and was officially designated Elgin’s oldest home by state officials when the city first got ahold of the property, according to Elgin Depot Museum’s Sandy Murphree.
The organization plans to continue work on the site with new period-appropriate doors and windows, a complete remodeling of the interior, external restrooms and more – with the goal of telling the story of the land with a physical link to the past.
“With all of this, thank you City Council for all of your support,” Carter added.
The group plans to host a small celebration once mosquito season dies down.
“It is important to celebrate the contributions made by dedicated individuals and groups in helping to preserve the tangible aspects of the heritage that has shaped us,” McShan said.
