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Mattoon’s Top 10 Endangered Buildings There have been a few successful preservations in town. These successes should be an inspiration for other buildings in town
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Neither preserved nor demolished, but no longer recognizable from their original form. These buildings are simply still standing.
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Save Mattoon With the destruction of the Big Four Depot, it has come to my attention that the history of Mattoon is rapidly being destroyed. It is my goal to record as much history of the town as I can in an effort to raise awareness of our past. With this I hope to save as many of the remaining historical structures around town as possible. I hope to work with the Coles County Historical Society in the preservation and revitalization of our City. I have chosen to work outside of the Historical Society so there can be a voice in favor of preservation when politics gets in the way of their efforts.
Since I began this effort in 2004, I have learned a great deal about the history of the City of Mattoon. I have also learned a lot on urban planning and economic development. This website has become a record of my studies in both areas.
My campaign has spurred my weekly column "Street Level" which was printed each week in the Coles County Leader, and can be viewed in the blog section of this website. It has taken me through a local election cycle where I attempted to gain a seat on the City Council. I also attend most council meetings. I try my best to offer alternative solutions to issues. Those solutions are also represented in this site. Anyone willing to assist in my effort or offer support please sign my guest book or send me e-mail. I am looking for old pictures and stories of Mattoon to include in this website. All contributions will be duly credited.
-Chris Rankin
This picture was taken from the same location as the one above
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