1846 Blodgett House
Plans set for
Interior Renovation

Plans have now been set for interior renovation of the 1846 Blodgett House. An exciting new approach to interior has been developed, presented and enthusiastically accepted by the Park Board. DGHPC and the Park District Staff are excited about moving forward.

We believe that it is important to focus now on providing public access to the inside of the Blodgett House so as to enhance its contribution in telling the story of Downers Grove’s heritage, the Underground Railroad and the Blodgett family.

A structural engineering report is near completion in preparation for reinforcing the floor supports.


Check out the Photo gallery
for Renovation Progress


The 1846 Blodgett House was built by Israel and Avis Blodgett. Not only does the house have architectural historical significance as the second or third oldest house in the Village, but it also has great cultural significance as an active stopover point on the Underground Railroad. The Downers Grove Heritage Preservation Corporation has been founded with a mission to save and restore this historic house and create a museum focusing on the underground railroad. click here to learn more
 
1846 Blodgett House Overview
Now that the 1846 Blodgett House has now been restored to its mid-19th Century appearance, Commissioners of  the Downers Grove Park District have accepted ownership of the House and terminated the District's lease agreement with the Heritage Preservation Corporation.

At the Park Board meeting on January 19, 2012,  President Charley Smart expressed gratitude to the Park District and the whole community for their great support.  He also presented our group's donation to the Park District of $5,000 to help with interior renovation efforts and spoke about our continuing volunteer involvement in this project. 




  Back_View_July2010


 Updated February 2, 2012






Site created, designed, and managed courtesy of Corridor Communications


Blodgett House Details


Front_Door_Detail

Door_Handles