Printed April 24, 2008

'Biggest thing to happen in Towanda in a long time'

A packed Towanda Community Building Tuesday night, with an estimated 130 people in attendance, listened intently as Bloomington realtor Diane Sullivan presented her plans to restore the famous, but recently abandoned Duncan Manor, located about two miles west of the village.

"It's the biggest thing to happen in Towanda in a long time," said Pat Pulokas, Treasurer of the Towanda Historical Society, which hosted teh event. Mrs. Sullivan and her husband Bud, were introduced by Historical Society President Gail Ann Briggs.

The three-story manor was built sometime between 1869 and 1872. It was believed to have been involved with the Underground Railroad that helped slaves escape but the property wasn't deeded until 1865, after the Civil War had ended. Mrs. Sullivan estimates it could take $500,000 to a million dollars to restore the brick structure. They plan to hold tours starting on June 8 and when all is said and done, they would like to hold a semi-formal event with chamber music for everyone to share.

The Sullivans plan to live there. They have 5 children, Marie, Corey, Chelsie, Nick and Travis and one grandchild, Caden, who will have plenty of room to play in.

The Sullivans have restored a home in Benjaminville, on the edge of Bloomington. She is a realtor with Coldwell Banker and he is in the construction business.

That could come in handy as they take this unbelievable journey down a historic path. We'll have more from time to time.

Printed April 17, 2008

Duncan Manor owner plans restoration

Public invited to attend April 22nd meeting
On Tuesday, April 22, 2008, the new owner of the Duncan Mansion will discuss plans to restore the 3-story Italianate home. The Towanda Area Historical Society is hosting the program which will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Towanda Community Building.  The public is invited to attend. 
Plans for tours of the house, located between Towanda-Barnes Road and Route 66 just south of Towanda and visible from I-55, will be announced at the event. Old and current photographs and newspaper articles will be on display.  There will be an opportunity to ask questions and meet former residents of the home.
The Duncan Mansion, also known as Duncan Manor, Towanda Meadows, and Castle in the Cornfield, has been the subject of many news articles and radio programs.  It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.  In 2007 the Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois listed it as one of the 10 most endangered historical landmarks in Illinois.  Since it was built (reported by Landmarks as 1875, but by local researchers as 1869) the house has been of interest to those traveling past the beautiful ornate structure.
For more information visit:
Towanda Area Historical Society http://www.towandahistory.org
WJBC podcast (Beth Whisman program) - March 28, 2008
http://www.wjbc.com/wire2/podbethid/00562_DuncanMansionUpdateweb_1
34611.htm
Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois
http://www.landmarks.org/ten_4.htm
Please contact TAHS President Gail Ann Briggs, (309) 728-2187 with questions.

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