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Closed for a time in 2004, Spring Grove Fish Hatchery was the state’s first fish hatchery, raising fry and supplying stock for the areas ponds, and has reopened under the ownership of the Village of Spring Grove. A Partners in Preservation grant was used to make repairs to the main house and to turn the property into a nature and educational center for the entire community.
What is the historical significance of this site?
Owned and managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Spring Grove was the state's first fish hatchery, raising fry and supplying stock for the area's ponds, lakes, and streams. The site was open to the public for nearly 90 years. Long-time residents used the site for recreation, playing by the pond, throwing frogs to the fish and ice-skating.
What is the current status of the grant?
The ambitious restoration project was officially completed in August 2008 and included the restoration of two brick pillars at the main entrance, the repair of brick masonry on the house, and the recreation of new wood windows to match originals that had been replaced. In addition to the Partners in Preservation project, the Village of Spring Grove performed site work to launch the process of restoring the historic fish ponds, making the site more attractive and usable for visitors.
Interest in Spring Grove and the surrounding communities has galvanized local groups and leveraged additional funding and support from other sources. The hatchery held its first annual Taste of Spring Grove event and there was a huge turnout.
Why this site needs your support:
The Village of Spring Grove, a small community in Illinois, is transforming the Spring Grove Fish Hatchery into a nature and interpretive center where visitors can learn about the history and workings of the hatchery, the natural environment and the heritage of the area. The existing hatchery building will be used as an educational center, a conference and learning center and possible museum. There will be opportunities for hiking, picnicking and exploration of the restored native flora and fauna on the property grounds.
For more information, call 815-675-2121 or click here to donate to this project.
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