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Super Supper
Nearly 170 supper club enthusiasts packed into the McHenry County Historical Society Museum April 4 to hear author/filmmaker Ron Faiola give his take on what has become a near religion in Wisconsin: Supper clubs.

Having already penned one book on the topic, with a second – "Wisconsin Supper Clubs - Another Round" – hitting the bookstores in June, Ron has traveled to more than 100 of these eatery institutions. They include those just across the Illinois border to those located where "chipmunks have guns."

Music part of farm life

More than 2,000 third- and fourth-graders from around the county are spending a couple hours this week learning about agriculture, life on the farm and history during the McHenry County Farm Bureau's biennial Ag Expo. The McHenry County Historical Society & Museum participated once again, spearheaded by the Education Committee and its chairwoman, Judy Beth Hervert.

March 30

About 20 people volunteered their time to baste the 2016 quilt, Threads of Friendship, at the museum the morning of March 30. Afterward volunteers shared conversation and laughs over a potluck.

Nearly 40 quilters attended the Jan. 13 Cutting Day at the McHenry County Historical Society Museum – receiving detailed instructions from Arlen Bird and Sue Stanek on a nine-patch, Friendship Star set in a ribbon variation for 2017. The quilt uses cream and turkey red, and features 64 blocks. The 2017 quilt is dedicated to veteran quilter Holly Scott.

County records storage shown

MCCF invests in the community

Members get sneak peek

About 70 members gathered March 18 for a free evening of wine, chocoloates, other hor d'oeuvres and conversation at the museum, while talking to those who loaned collections ranging from bar coasters to model trains.

History minded quilters earn award

Radio program

The McHenry County Historical Society partnered with Huntley Community Radio to produce a history-based radio show which aired on 101.5 FM. To access the shows that were produced, click, click HERE.

 

 

 

Published Feb. 1, 2016 in the Northwest Herald

When the conservation of a natural woodland or vista butts up against the need to conserve historic structures, which emerges unscathed? Ideally, both do.

Each are unique examples of a bygone era continuously under threat from development. Each have untold cultural significance, speaking to who we were, are and hope to become. Each are irreplaceable and represent a valuable legacy for future generations.

By KURT BEGALKA

Every day we stand witness to the fallout from the ongoing struggle between preservation and progress: Books vs. Nooks, photographs vs. Photoshop, oaks vs. edifices – just to name a few.

But it’s not just that historical buildings are being leveled faster than ... Too late. Sometimes, actually most times, the things inside the building matter just as much. Tree trunks no longer double as joists in basements or crawl spaces. And where are you going to find solid maple doors, leaded glass and brass fixtures anymore?

Appraisals fill popular need

Future TV Special

Dec. 9 Lunch

The historical society hosted a full house Dec. 9 for its annual Volunteer Appreciation Lunch. We were honored to host the Marengo Community High School Choir, directed by Todd Stellmach.

A special thank you goes out to "Party Girls" Marcia Lockwood, Mary Jane Schuring, Diane Urban and Coral Scranton for organizing the the lunch – ably assisted by Office Manager Nancy Roozée. Thanks also to Mike DeRose of StoneBakers Pizza for catering the event. Following a trivia contest compiled by staffer Jess Cunny, the program got under way.

Raffle Quilts

Radio history

The McHenry County Board is accepting applications from individuals interested in appointment to the McHENRY COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION.  One position is available for an appointment term expiring on November 26, 2020.  Attorneys, architects, engineers, real estate professionals with knowledge of historic preservation, and individuals with a demonstrated interest in pre-history, history or architecture are encouraged to apply.  A completed application, along with a resume, should be returned to the County Board office. 

Veterans honored with quilts

More than 100 people packed Eckert Hall Nov. 11 for the first, of what we hope are many, Valor Quilt presentation as part of our annual Heritage Quilters quilt raffle and program. This year's Civil War-themed effort was spearheaded by Sandy Schweitzer, Holly Scott and Carol Sek – punctuated by a special guest appearance from Mary Ann "Mother" Bickerdyke, as portrayed by Crystal Lake's Kathy Jayko.

Mary Ellen Heelan

Tickling the ivories

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