The historic Allerton Park and Retreat Center unfolds like a set from Bridgerton. Serene grassy field and farmland pave the way to an enforcing Georgian Revival mansion set beside a reflecting swimming pool. Gracious alleys cut through official gardens, water fountains and blooming parterres intermingle, and a lovely barn rises from well-tended pastures.
All of it forms the backdrop for Illinois’ very first folk school– a location where people concern find out hands-on abilities in a natural setting– which develops on the legacy of Robert Allerton. Heir to among the Gilded Age’s largest fortunes, Allerton developed his artistic perceptiveness through studies in Munich and Paris. When the 24-year-old returned to Chicago in 1897, he decided to manage his family’s huge rural landholdings rather of their stockyards and banks.
However Allerton likely had another reason for constructing a life near Monticello, Illinois. At “The Farms,” he might be himself– a gay guy. Others felt comfortable there too. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Allerton’s guest lists show a variety of Chicago authors, painters, sculptors and journalists. Farming experts also came for its cutting edge ag operation, leading to close ties with the University of Illinois. The philanthropist deeded his mansion, grounds and farmland to the University in 1946.
For the past years, the University has actually provided arts and crafts setting at the estate, setting the stage for this fall’s launch of The Farms: An Allerton Folk School. The historical icehouse is now a studio for artists-in-residence. Many time their stay with monthly Allerton Supper Club events, when regional chefs curate multicourse meals.
” Our classes and facilities have a distinct historic tie to the property,” states Derek Peterson, executive director. “We use a location where guests can unplug and share creative experiences that draw them together.”
Allerton, whose memorial plaque reads,” provided his woodland house … for the people to delight in and improve their lives,” would be pleased.
Class Schedule
For the inaugural fall season, the folk school will use more than two dozen classes and experiences. Here’s a taste.
Beginning Weaving 1 and 2
Learn the essentials and weave a table runner from start to complete. Trainees who’ve completed the first 6 weeks can carry on to the next course, where they will create their own weaving job.
Bookbinding
Take an introduction class on different methods to bookbinding, both for practical and artistic functions. Students will complete a last book job demonstrating a specific creative approach to the diverse methods taught in class.
Enhance Your Improv
This class teaches students of all experience levels the mechanics and tools involved in improvisational theater. The class revolves around long-form improv but uses short-form improv video games to impart the craft.
