State Representative Travis Weaver has confirmed the allocation of twelve million dollars for the first stage of restoration efforts at the Bishop Hill State Historic Site in Henry County. This major investment will support critical repairs and updates to several cornerstone buildings, such as the Colony Church and the historic Bjorklund Hotel. The restoration aims to preserve and enhance Bishop Hill’s unique heritage, ensuring its stories and structures endure for future generations. Local officials and preservation groups welcome the funding, viewing it as a crucial step in both saving history and promoting regional tourism tied to the site’s rich Swedish-American past.
“The tireless work of so many incredible people is coming to fruition at Bishop Hill, and I couldn’t be more excited or proud,” stated Rep. Weaver. “I again want to thank the Capital Development Board (CDB) and IDNR for working with us and recognizing the critical nature of the needs at Bishop Hill. I am thrilled for the Bishop Hill Advocates and Project Team, as this announcement has been a long time coming. Everyone remained steadfast and on message, and the restoration of the beautiful Bishop Hill site is indeed moving forward.”
The buildings are owned by the State of Illinois and maintained by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Last year, Landmarks Illinois included Bishop Hill on its 10 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois List. For more information, please call Rep. Weaver’s District Office at (309) 204-6514 or visit his website at repweaver.com.