Central Illinois native and California-based entrepreneur Kim Blickenstaff is contributing $500,000 toward the renovation of the historic Peoria Women’s Club building. He’s also issued a challenge to the community to get involved.
“There’s so many people whose mothers belonged to the club. I’d like to get others, people who have connections to the club involved, and reinvigorate it.”
A “Restoration Celebration” fundraiser/membership drive will be held at the Peoria Women’s Club, at 301 NE Madison Avenue in downtown Peoria, on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 4-7 p.m.
Blickenstaff said the building’s theater hasn’t been used in decades.
“There was a fire downstairs. Of course, while they were battling the fire, the theater got water damage. It hasn’t been used in over 40 years. I just think it’s an ideal venue to bring back along with the Scottish Rite,” Blickenstaff said.
He envisions the 432-seat theater becoming part of a revived theater district that would also include the Apollo Theater downtown.
The cornerstone for the red-brick, 11,000-square-foot facility was cemented into place in 1893.
The club was founded by some of the most prominent women in Peoria history, a full quarter century before they had the right to vote.
For information regarding donations and membership to the Women’s Club, click HERE.
