Moving Forward

Now that we have met the first goal and our bank account is growing. These are our next steps:

  • Finalizing the lease with Principia
  • Filling positions for:
    • Architect
    • Project Manager
    • Head of Fundraising
    • Head of Enterprise Fundraising
  • We will begin these in earnest in 2015.

Once the architect and/or project manager are determined, we will use funds to have inspections made, assess, and handle any immediate needs. Among first project considerations are: extending water access to the property for fire hydrants, asbestos removal, and determining a realistic projection of overall project costs.

We Reached the First Milestone

An outpouring of metaphysical and financial support has taken the form of many pledges to save Eliestoun. Friends of Eliestoun has met Principia’s first requirement of $100,000 in pledges by December 31, 2014. We are humbled and filled with gratitude for this progress. Principia has acknowledged that we achieved the first milestone, and we have embarked on a closer partnership with the college, particularly reaching out to academic departments, and embracing alumni and friends who remember and celebrate Eliestoun. Our next milestone is to secure $100,000 in the bank account by March 31, 2015, another requirement outlined by Principia. Thank you for your support, and help us to keep spreading the word. – The board of Friends of Eliestoun: Alice Dervin, Jonathan Hosmer, Jeralyn Lewitz, Lora McMullin, Helen Wills

New $11,000 Matching Pledge

We’re in the middle of November, with less than six weeks before the deadline of December 31, 2014. Another generous supporter of Eliestoun has stepped forward with an $11,000 pledge to keep the campaign going strong, doubling every pledge and contribution. Pledges are also still accepted, provided payment is made by March 31, 2015. You can donate now with check or credit card.

Non-profit Filing

Friends of Eliestoun has filed all forms necessary for 501c3 non-profit status, including 1023 and CO-1. This filing enables Friends of Eliestoun to open a bank account and take donations rather than pledges. We now have an account open at Liberty Bank, and can accept funds at our mailing address:

Friends of Eliestoun nfp
PO Box 35
Elsah, IL 62028

We are working to open a Paypal account enabling credit card donations. UPDATE: Credit card donations may now be made from our donate page.

$10,000 Matching Pledge Launched

1890 was a long time ago! 124 years of giving. 

Will you help us renew Eliestoun so Principia can enjoy another 124 years and beyond?

We have received another exciting matching pledge. If you make your pledge now, one of Eliestoun’s generous supporters has offered to match the first $10,000 we raise by the end of the year! This means you can double every dollar you provide while helping to save this unique treasure.

… so pledge now!

Board of Directors

We have begun filling positions on the Board of Eliestoun. We currently have a President, Vice-President, Website Maintenance Coordinator, Communications Head, Metaphysical Head, Parliamentarian, and a Secretary. We are looking to fill additional Board positions of: Treasurer, Head of Fundraising (donors), Head of Enterprise (projects raising funds for Friends of Eliestoun), and Historical Landmark Status Liaison. In addition and vital to the success of the project, we need to find a Project Manager and an Architect. (We do have information on several interested architects and will begin reviewing them and their current interest in the next month or two.) If you are interested in filling any of these needed positions, or if you know of someone who is, please email us at friendsofeliestoun@gmail.com. We’d be happy to respond.