Why we made this website?
- Our 105 yr-old Tabernacle at Oakdale Nature Preserve holds so many memories for so many people in our community. It's on the Landmark Illinois 2018 Endangered List because it's one of a kind. It's the only fully enclosed, steel supported Tabernacle left in Illinois that is structurally sound and potentially usable. The Tabernacle is currently part of the Freeport Park District but it's been closed to the public since 2012. Starting in Nov 2017 a group of citizens became interested in saving the Tabernacle from being demolished. In January 2020 the group called Save the Tabernacle, formed a nonprofit corporation and they are having discussions with the Freeport Park District to make necessary repairs and get the building back open for our community.
- Why should we save it? Old buildings have value because you can't reproduce the character of old buildings no matter how hard you try.
- What else? Old buildings often have some great components that would cost an arm and a leg to build today. Our Tabernacle has a unique octagon-shaped steel-framed roof structure that is in amazing shape.
- And on the last note, we know that reusing old buildings adds character to individual buildings, but above that, it adds character and contributes to the identity of whole cities. It's what will make people currently driving by our city on their way to Galena, stop and choose Freeport
How can I help?
Make a Donation today
We are making a plan and of course, this includes looking for opportunities to raise the money we'll need. If you are experienced in fundraising or in writing grants, we could use your help. If you have an idea or know of a business willing to donate materials, please email us.
Donations are always appreciated. Consider making a donation through our GoFundMe campaign here: https://bit.ly/2T5asb4
We need volunteers
We are collecting a list of volunteers and skills to help when we start rehabbing the Tabernacle. There will be plenty of opportunities to help. Some involve physical work but there will also be opportunities to help with things like fundraising. For accuracy, we are asking everyone that wants to help, to sign up here: Volunteer & Email signup Thank you.
Buy a T-shirt to show your support
- Our design was made by Lily Krueger. She's a freshman at Freeport High School and has been quite an advocate working to save the Tabernacle. She made a painting of the Tabernacle before the Board meeting on February 18th. We loved it so much, we asked her if we could use it for our logo. Thank you, Lily. You ROCK!
- Larry Pittsley has offered to make the t-shirts and donate ALL the profits to the Save The Tabernacle fund. There are two ways to order a shirt. The first is through his website.
- Prices start at $15. Lots of colors and styles available.
- Or visit Larry's store in Freeport, IL called American Garage Art to make your purchase. You're in for a treat. A full range of items to choose from including some very cool bags. American Garage Art is located at 22 W Spring St, Freeport, IL. Call ahead to check on hours (815) 291-8299
History of the Oakdale Tabernacle
History of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle has been an important part of our community for 105 years