Historic Preservation Commission
Aug 25, 2026
Agenda preview
The lede
- Commission will consider landmark designation application for Perry School at 633 W. Perry Street, built in 1897 and one of the oldest operational schools in Illinois
- Property maintenance grant reimbursement will be reviewed for 401 N. Main Street (St. John’s United Church of Christ) window replacement project
- Victorian Picnic fundraiser scheduled for September 26, 2026 at Swift House
- Commission will discuss 2026 Awards Program potential winners and progress on promotional/fundraising events including scavenger hunt museum bags and Chef’s Night at Texas Roadhouse
Decisions & votes
No content.
Discussion items
Landmark Application - 633 W. Perry Street (Perry School) The commission will consider a landmark designation application for Perry School, built in 1897. According to staff report, the property meets criteria as having character and interest as part of Belvidere’s development and being suitable for preservation. Perry School is believed to be the second oldest continuously operating public elementary school in Illinois (after Allen Grade School in Bureau, built 1887). The building retains much of its original design integrity including gray cut stone foundation, brown brick, oculi circular windows bracketing the front entrance, and diamond-checked brickwork pattern. Unlike sister schools Lincoln (demolished) and Logan (inappropriate additions), Perry School has remained largely unchanged. Staff recommends approval.
Property Maintenance Grant Reimbursement - 401 N. Main Street St. John’s United Church of Christ submitted documentation for reimbursement following window replacement project, including before/after photos and final cost documentation.
Work Plan and 2026 Awards Program Commission will discuss potential winners for 2026 awards program.
Promotional/Fundraising Events
- Scavenger Hunt Museum Bags: Based on July minutes, commission directed creation of 10 bags for each of three scavenger hunts, priced at $10 each or all three for $25, including question sets, answer keys, and stickers
- Chef’s Night - Texas Roadhouse: Commission previously directed purchase of one case of peanuts with appetizer coupons; will assess if additional purchases warranted
- Victorian Picnic: Scheduled for September 26, 2026 at Swift House
Other Business Updates on book sales and royalties for Images of America: Belvidere and Boone County, Boone County Journal Postcard Books, and A Walk Through Time.
Financial / operational notes
Expenditures: None listed for this meeting.
Friends of Preservation: Status to be determined.
Next meeting: September 22, 2026