April 20, 2021 – The History of the Heartland is conducting their 2nd annual Architectural Scavenger Hunt during Historic Preservation Week in Decatur. The contest will run May 16-22. The entry form will be available at the Wabash Depot Antique Centre (780 East Cerro Gordo) or on the History of the Heartland Facebook page. Completed entries can be returned to the Wabash Depot or emailed in. Families are encouraged to drive or walk around downtown while maintaining social distancing to discover the answers.
There are 8 downtown Decatur architectural features for contestants to identify. The 2021 contest contains objects from downtown Decatur. Local small businesses have donated certificates and prizes. The grand prize package is valued at over $100. The contest is designed to encourage citizens to notice the fine architectural detail in many of our historic structures. This event is designed for all ages to participate.
The Wabash Depot Antique Centre was selected by the committee to be a distribution point for the entries because it is a successful example of repurposing a historic structure for public use. The Wabash Railroad was built in 1901 and the building was designed by St. Louis architect Theodore Link. Link had designed St. Louis Union Station a few years previous. The Depot will be featured on the History of the Heartland Facebook page on May 16. More detailed information will be posted about the structure on the page. Call for more contest information (217) 791-1385 or email historyoftheheartland@yahoo.com.
