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Peoria Modern: An Era of Unforgettable Optimism

The mid-century modern design and architecture of Peoria will be the focus of a guided Peoria Historical Society bus tour on Friday, May 24. Architect Ed Barry of Farnsworth Group will lead the tour entitled “Peoria Modern • An Era of Unforgettable Optimism” from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

The tour will highlight examples of Peoria’s rich history of mid-century architecture, which emphasized optimism, sleek and simple design, and a connection with nature. It will provide exterior perspectives and commentary on a baker’s dozen of significant local modernist buildings, including private residences and commercial structures designed by Cletis Roy Foley, Richard (Dick) Doyle, Gordon Livezey Tinsman, Leslie (Les) Kenyon, Edward Verkler, John (Jack) Hackler, and others.

The bus tour will depart from Peoria Public Library, 107 N.E. Monroe, and will end at the same location, providing the tour group the opportunity to then have a guided visit of the Central Illinois Landmarks Foundation “Selections and Stories” exhibit. Held in the Main Library Gallery, this show will feature a wide selection of architectural drawings of Peoria-area buildings. 

Tickets for the bus tour are $25 and are available online at https://309tix.com/events/peoria-modern-an-era-of-unforgettable-optimism-5-24-2024 or by contacting the Peoria Historical Society at 309-674-1921. Space is limited so reserve now!