A change of scenery, as they say, is good for us. Getting out of the house and experiencing new things offers emotional benefits such as reduced stress and physical benefits such as better sleep. It was with great excitement that I discovered Allerton Park and Retreat. Located in Monticello, Illinois, a short three-and-a-half hour drive away, it is the perfect combination of a Georgian Manor house and 14 formal gardens.
For this column, Micah Putman, the Associate Director of Park Operations, has graciously agreed to answer a few questions.
Micah can you please tell us about the history of Allerton Park and Retreat Center?
Allerton Park was established in 1946 after philanthropist Robert Allerton donated the property to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Robert grew up on Prairie Avenue in Chicago, the son of Samuel Allerton who was instrumental in establishing the stock yards in Chicago. Robert studied art in France, decided he was no good, burned all his paintings and asked his dad what to do next. Samuel offered Robert to manage his 12,000 acres of farmland in central Illinois and gave him funds to build a residence-the mansion that still stands today and houses the conference center.
What types of gardens can visitors explore during their time at Allerton?
Allerton has several formal gardens, many of which were developed by Robert Allerton through the first several decades of the 1900s. The gardens are very typical of the time period, heavily influenced by European style gardens with some Asian flare. Robert was a world traveler and collected thousands of pieces of art and many pieces are still on display in the gardens.
Do you have a favorite spot in the garden?
I have many favorite spots at Allerton! The river overlook is very neat, standing on top of Robert Allerton’s old pump house which used to be used to irrigate the gardens. The path past the square parterre garden is also a fun spot with views of walls, plantings, ornaments and an original glass and wood greenhouse still in use today.
What makes the Allerton Gardens unique?
The expanse of the gardens is very surprising, especially nestled out in the country off the beaten path. Long allées define many of the spaces but have some to include updated plantings that awe and inspire. The ornaments and statues dotting the landscape along with the mix of formal garden and natural spaces is very unique. But the best part is the community of people that all add to this place — the volunteers, donors, and visitors and conference goers from around the world all add beauty and depth to the history of Allerton.
In addition to the 14 formal gardens, there is an extension trail system. What do visitors experience on the McDonald Family trail?
The park is over 1500 acres so there is a lot to see! Our trail system encompasses more than 15 miles of trails through upland and lowland oak hickory forests and prairies. Additionally, we have started to develop a multi-use/bike trail with our first mile being finished last year.
In addition to plants, there are also numerous sculptures throughout the gardens. Where did these predominately come from?
Many of the sculptures, ornaments and art pieces Robert Allerton collected on his world travels. There are a few pieces he had commissioned such as the Primitive men statues. There are over 100 pieces on the grounds today.
If someone is interested in visiting Allerton, where might they find more information?
Our website: Allerton.illinois.edu is the best access to information but we also regularly post events and other information on our Facebook page.
Is there an admission fee?
The park is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, from 8 a.m. to sundown. It is free to enter and explore but we do encourage donations to help us keep the park up and running. The mansion can be viewed during mansion tour times, which can be found on our website. On the website you will also find information about Folk school classes, events and overnight accommodations.
Lodging is also available on the grounds. What types of accommodations are available and what is the price range?
We have lodging at the historic mansion and 3 other outbuildings. Prices range anywhere from $90-150 depending on season, events, etc. More information on lodging can be found on our website or by calling 217-333-3287.
Kathleen Carr is the owner of The Growing Scene, Inc.,a landscaping company. She can be reached by calling 815-923-7322 or emailing her at Kathleen@thegrowingscene.com. Have a gardening question? Please contact her. She may address it in an upcoming column.
