Historical Society breaks ground for Daphne Sumner History Discovery Center
The St. Clair County Historical Society and Korte & Luitjohan Contractors broke ground on The Daphne Sumner History Discovery Center at 701 E. Washington St. in Belleville, on Tuesday.
The Historical Society launched the Discovery Campaign at the beginning of this year with a goal to raise $300,000 to renovate the 1909 Queen Anne-style house into a historical hub for residents in St. Clair County and beyond to enjoy. Daphne Sumner, a longtime board member of the Society, kickstarted the campaign with a challenge gift of $100,000.
The Daphne Sumner History Discover Center will offer tour groups, programs and social gatherings with the following amenities: research library, welcome area, artifact preservations lab, gazebo, foyer, Curator’s Office, rose garden and outdoor gathering area.
“The Daphne Sumner History Discovery Center will become a focal
point for our community. We will inspire visitors and local residents alike through our collections, exhibits, library, and programs. It will be a place to gather, to learn, and to grow,” said William Shannon, curator at STCCHS.
The goal is for the excavation and new construction to be completed by Sept. 15, and the exterior transformation to be done by Oct. 15.
The Society is still seeking donations to reach their $300,000 goal for the center. If you are interested in making a donation, contact Shannon at (618) 234-0600. To learn more about the Historical Society and the work it does for local communities, visit: stcchs.org.
