Sandburg Historic Site, Bishop Hill to Remain Open Despite Illinois Museum Closures

Two area historic sites remain safe, despite threats that could close down various other state museums in Illinois. Governor Bruce Rauner’s Administration has indicated that he intends to support the closure of the Illinois State Museum system, which includes four satellite sites, such as the Dickson Mounds archeological site in Lewistown.

Sandburg and Bishop Hill Site Superintendent Martha Downey says that as of now there will be no change in operation to either Sandburg or Bishop Hill.

Downey adds that it is unclear how the final budget situation in the state will effect the sites once it is resolved, but for now both local sites will remain operational.

According to a report filed by the State Journal Register, the sites Rauner is looking to close are anticipated to save around $4.8 Million and would be closed down by September 30th. A bill intended to prevent those closings was sent to the House floor last week. Senate approved the measure in August.

Superintendent of Illinois Historic Sites Alyson Grady clarified that the sites in danger of closing are run through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, whereas Sandburg and Bishop Hill are run through the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.

Grady says all IHPA sites currently remain operational.