The Flemish American Club in Kewanee needs your help to fix the historic and iconic Windmill sign that has been on the property for many, many years. At a recent meeting, the Flemish American Club Board of Directors voted to renovate the windmill sign that stands on the property at 313 N. Burr Blvd. The sign dates back to the late 30’s when it was located on Stokes Street at the home of Frank and Anna Lippens. The Lippen’s had a bar/ballroom attached to their home called The Belgian Village. The sign was eventually relocated to it’s current home on Burr Blvd.
Board President Bonnie Ince stated that “If everyone who has ever hosted or attended an event or dance at the Flemish Club donated just a few dollars we would reach our goal in no time and see this beautiful sign once again shine in its full glory”.
The organization began to accommodate the large number of Flemish speaking people in 1933, who came to Kewanee for jobs and a better life than the northern area of Belgian. The organization held meetings in various locations including the Wooden Shoe Club, Odd Fellows Hall and Alcazar tavern and grill in the early years.
The current Flemish-American Club was constructed in 1948 and expanded to its current size in 1961, making it one of the largest venues in Kewane. It was during those early years the sign made its journey from the Lippens Belgian Village to the Flemish American Club. Today the clubroom is used by 1000’s of people for dances, receptions, fundraisers, benefits and community events.
The sign renovation will replace the broken neon tubes and new motors, so the paddles will once again spin as they once did. The bottom portion will be updated as well and when completed it will be hoisted to the Southeast corner of the building to shine brightly and once again become an iconic beacon inviting everyone to the Club
Some donations have already been received and a donation jar is currently on the bar. A few fundraisers and events to help raise the estimated $15,000 needed to renovate and repair the sign are being planned. Anyone that donates $100 or more will receive a packet that includes 4 free drinks as a thank you.
Donations can be mailed or dropped off at the Flemish Club, 313 N. Burr Blvd., Kewanee, IL 61443. Please notate that your donation for the Windmill Sign Fund. Questions regarding the sign project may be directed to Mark Mikenas at 309-854-2036.
