Project 1879 Update
Over the past three years the Ellwood House Association and the DeKalb Park District have been hard at work implementing restoration projects outlined in our Project 1879 campaign. Funds for the preservation were raised prior to the pandemic, but with COVID-19 throwing a wrench in the carefully laid plans, the projects themselves did not begin until 2022 and will continue through the near future.
Our first project involved repointing the exterior masonry of the dining room bay. When masons removed the existing mortar, we discovered that the wall was in a more dire condition than originally thought. With crumbling bricks and mortar due to heavy moisture, our contractors removed the old mortar and left the ‘joints’ bare to give the brick a chance to dry out. Returning in the fall of 2023, the joints were repointed with a mortar to match the original in color and composition.
In the spring and summer of 2023 electricians were brought in to replace the cloth wiring throughout all the floors of the mansion, and to update lighting in the Living Room to be historically accurate. The majority of this project remains hidden under the walls of the mansion, but the updates were necessary for the safety of the building and the historic objects within those walls. Of course, with projects this large, unexpected challenges are bound to pop-up. To prevent the destruction of the decorative plaster found on the ceilings of the first and second floor, we removed the floorboards from the second and third floors to reach the wiring and light fixtures below.
After three bid attempts, a window restoration company was secured to repair and install storm windows throughout the home. The project began in July 2024, and finished in time for our Holiday season. Contractors repaired and in some cases, installed new storm windows for 18 windows throughout the mansion. With careful consideration for the stained glass in the rotunda a cherry picker was brought in and work was completed from the exteriors, without damaging the historic glass.
This summer, we hope to install a new balustrade on our front porch, replace the dining room bay roof, and begin addressing the water damage and infiltration in the conservatory. After that, we can begin the interior finishes restoration. The restoration efforts have been multi-faceted and challenging, but also rewarding. When the original Project 1879 was put together the cost estimates reflected the costs of construction in 2019. Now, after the pandemic and increasing material costs, the Ellwood House Board and DeKalb Park District have been in conversation about the reality of what can still be accomplished with the remaining funds. As we look ahead, the work of preserving the Ellwood House continues. Each completed project helps ensure the mansion’s historic integrity and allows for future generations of visitors to enjoy meaningful experiences.
Thanks to the dedication of our partners, contractors, and supporters, we have been able to navigate these projects and challenges while staying true to our mission. Every contribution, whether through expertise, advocacy, or financial support, can play a role in making these restoration efforts possible. As we move forward with the next phases of Project 1879, we remain grateful for those who share in our commitment to preserving this landmark for years to come.