HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolutions - R-99-024 - 06/02/1999 - SUPPORT LAND ACQUISITION GRANT APPLICATION OSLAD FRESOLUTION
RS-99- 024
WHEREAS, the City of McHenry is applying to the State of Illinois Department of
Natural Resources under its OSLAD Program for a grant for the purchase of the remaining
parcel of the Petersen Farm; and
WHEREAS, the City of McHenry feels this would be a great addition to the City's Park
System; and
WHEREAS, the City of McHenry would like to preserve the remaining portion of this
historic fourth generation working farm including the original house and barn,; and
WHEREAS, the house is a pre -Civil War residence built by the original land owner,
Page Colby, great-grandfather -to Kenneth Petersen; and
WHEREAS, the barn built by 1879 with board and batten vertical sides and stone
foundation being 30 feet in length was extended in 1906 an additional 50 feet with vertical
board construction on similar stone foundation with two wooden silos; and
WHEREAS, the Colbys and Petersens farmed over 200 acres including 13 acres that
extended out into McCullom Lake; and
WHEREAS, the property includes an oak savannah which was used as a \,\food lot to
supply the farm's need of fence posts; and
WHEREAS, this 60 acre parcel is the last remaining portion of this homestead site; and
WHEREAS, the intention of the Petersen Family was to preserve this farm site as open
space for future generations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FIRMLY RESOLVED that the Mayor and McHenry City
Council go on record as supporting this land acquisition grant application in the amount of
$800,000. This will greatly enhance recreational activities and opportunities for the Citizens
of the McHenry Area and preserve this unique and historic site.
Passed and Approved this 2xn day of June, 1999.
ATTEST:
City Cler
Mayor