Allerton Park has announced that they have received a one million dollar gift from life-long visitors, Dave and Debbie Rathje. The gift will be used to fund a new drive to the Allerton Mansion, reminiscent of the way guest historically approached the mansion.
This new entrance will create a more prominent, accesible vehicle entry for all visitors, in addition ADA accessible walkways and improved lighting.
Dave and Debbie, of Decatur, have been enjoying Allerton for over 60 years, but hadn’t been inside the Mansion until July 2014 when they joined Allerton staff for a tour.
A public Groundbreaking Ceremony, for the David J. and Debra C. Rathje Allerton Mansion Grand Entrance Drive, will begin construction and honor the Rathjes on Friday, September 29 at 2:30pm outside the Mansion, 515 Old Timber Road, Monticello.
For more information on the project or Groundbreaking Ceremony contact Bridget at bridgetf@illinois.edu or call 217-333-3287.