The Mill in final phases of demolition

[June 21, 2007]  Route 66 Heritage Foundation Chairman Geoff Ladd, also the executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County, has announced that The Mill is in the final stages of demolition. Parkland Environmental Group, led by David Stowers, tore down the dilapidated sections that had little historical value, leaving behind the original portion as well as the post-World War II addition.

"We're now working towards making this attraction into a photo opportunity," says Ladd, "but we're still not comfortable enough with the construction completion to allow visitors inside." The building, while structurally sound, is still in need of more repairs and construction.

The Route 66 Heritage Foundation of Logan County reports that they have noticed an increase in salvagers looking for scrap metal and other things in the debris. The group reminds the public that The Mill is private property, and trespassers will be prosecuted. Geoff Ladd goes on to say, "Our organization does not want to stop the tourism of The Mill; we want to stop theft and trespass so that we can continue the work." The Mill will be shored up and secured over the weekend to help prevent further salvaging efforts.

Even though The Mill is not yet complete, Ladd hopes to encourage visitors to come and take a look at what has already been accomplished. Those wishing to visit The Mill should call 217-732-8687 before making a stop there, so that a tour guide can be provided.

[Text from news release received]