The state of Illinois has reopened 11 historic sites, including the Dana-Thomas House in Springfield, that were closed in December as a cost-cutting move by now-deposed governor Rod Blagojevich, reported the Chicago Tribune.
Gov. Pat Quinn ordered the reopening of the sites on April 15. He said Blagojevich’s move was a “huge blunder” that cost Illinois thousands of dollars in tourism revenue.
Blagojevich was impeached and removed as governor in January after being arrested during a federal corruption investigation. He was formally indicted earlier this month.
The Dana-Thomas House isn’t on Route 66, but sits just a few blocks away. But because it is a prominent example of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, it often is visited by Mother Road travelers.
3 cheers for Illinois. 11
Extra things to enjoy on
Tour.
My cousin Shane and I visited the Dana-Thomas House back in 2001. I’m shocked to hear that it was closed! What was Blago thinking? Never mind, I don’t want to know….
It’s a wonderful tour and a fabulous house. I recommend it to anyone who loves architecture or is a fan of Wright.
Blago doesn’t think. He’s like The Joker: He just … does things.
I’m kind of proud of Quinn. He’s wanted to be governor for years, and I was never really convinced he was up to the task. I am delighted to see him proving me wrong on a daily basis.