Decorative plates commemorating Hinsdale's centennial in 1973 are among some of the artifacts preserved from that celebration, as the village now looks to mark 150 years.
Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future.
The Village of Hinsdale hopes to project that two-fold spirit in its 150-year sesquicentennial celebration this year through various expressions in the months ahead.
Assistant village manager Andrianna Peterson said a proclamation will be read commemorating the milestone anniversary of Hinsdale's 1873 incorporation following the village board meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 2.
"We've invited legislators and community and organization leaders - really anyone is invited - to attend," she said. "Afterwards we're going to have a reception in the rotunda. Also, the old board room and (current) American Legion room is going to be open to the public for viewing. The American Legion room has a lot of history in it, and it was the American Legion Auxiliary that collected money in order for the Memorial Building to be built."
Peterson said cupcakes will be served.
The next notable observance will be the Fine Arts Festival and Fourth of July Parade in the village's downtown, she said.
"We're actively working with community groups and really trying to get the word out that this is a great opportunity for everyone in the community to be a part of this timeless classic event," Peterson said.
On Aug. 17, a high-tech light show projected on the Memorial Building will tell a pictorial history of the village.
"We're really excited about this. It'll will be right after the last Uniquely Thursdays for the summer," Peterson said. "It's going to use the backdrop of the Memorial Building. That'll help bring history to life."
Celebratory touches also are expected at annual draws like Fall Fest and the Christmas Walk.
"We're still planning on having all of our signature events, but we are looking at ways that we can really enhance those events to tie in historical elements," Peterson said.
One physical enhancement in the works is the construction of a plaza on the south side of the Memorial Building.
"The goal is for that project to begin right after Labor Day and be completed so that it can be dedicated sometime around the holidays," she explained.
Peterson said the village has received letters of congratulation from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, among others. And on March 30 - two days before Hinsdale's official incorporation date - State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass (D-45, Westmont) announced the village's 150th anniversary from the floor of the Illinois House.
Peterson encouraged residents to stay abreast of all the activities through the village website, http://www.villageofhinsdale.org/visitors/150th_anniversary_celebration/index.php. She said the Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/HinsdaleParks, will soon feature information about homes of notable past Hinsdaleans, such as the former residences of first Village President Joel Tiffany and early developer William Robbins as examples.
Peterson hopes the festivities are enjoyed by all.
"Every person's, every organization's contribution over the years has really made Hinsdale the special place it is," she said. "We all have something to celebrate."
