Logan County Prepares for One-hundred-year Courthouse Celebration   

[SEPT. 19, 2005]  LINCOLN -- Plans to celebrate the one-hundred-year anniversary of the dedication of the Logan County Courthouse on Saturday, Nov. 5 are falling into place. It was originally dedicated on November 9, 1905.

Events begin with a parade “Looking Back, Moving Forward.” The parade begins at the Logan County Safety Complex at 1 p.m. sharp. Following the parade a brief ceremony is scheduled at 2:15 outside the courthouse (or inside if weather is inclement).

The ceremony will include a presentation of colors by veterans, brief introduction of court officials, local and state government officials with Dr. Keith Ray delivering a brief message. Congressman Ray LaHood and Justice Rita Garman will be guest dignitaries.

The original two-step music that was written for the courthouse dedication will be performed by a local college group. In addition Ann Beaver Whitting will be on hand to perform the song ‘Illinois.’

A number of collector’s items are now available for purchase. Proceeds support the centennial celebration.

There is a large watercolor painting by Robert Johnson, $120.00 framed and $60.00 unframed.

Artist David Doolin has created an 11” X 14” pencil drawing. It is available unframed for $14.00.

A brass enameled lapel pin is $5.00.

And a limited number of custom made miniature courthouse replica’s are available for $25.00.

[See full color items]
 

The memorabilia are on display at the Treasurer’s office in the Logan County Courthouse and can be purchased or ordered from there.
 

Two books are under construction. One is of memories associated with the courthouse that have been submitted to the Logan County Genealogical Society.

The other is a book documenting the history of all the Logan County Courthouses. It is under construction by local historian Paul Gleason. In it Gleason details the significance of particular ornamentation and statues that are found in and around the courthouse. Gleason anticipates its completion in Dec.

Entries are being sought for the parade. Antique motor vehicles, horses, carriages and other animal powered vehicles, floats or other entries are encouraged.

The names of deceased members of law enforcement and emergency service agencies will be carried and honored during the parade and ceremony.

[Click here for a parade registration form.]

Organizers are also interested in a good representation of veterans that will participate in the parade or ceremony following it. Arnold and Ruth Haak have taken charge of organizing the veterans. They can be contacted at 1417 N. Logan or call [phone].

Donations to help off-set costs of awards for children and the ceremony expenses can be made by sending a check to Jean Anderson, Regional Superintendent of Schools, P.O. Box 460,122 N. McLean Street, Lincoln, IL 62656.

[Jan Youngquist]