HISTORIC MADISON, INC. COMPLETES SULLIVAN HOUSE STUDY

Thursday, April 6, 2023 at 9:35 AM

This is the first study ever done on the historic home

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Historic Madison, Inc. (HMI) President John Staicer announced today at its Annual Meeting it has completed the first ever in-depth study of the historic Judge Jeremiah Sullivan House. After a thorough review of the study, the preservation organization will plan for the future restoration and use of this important museum property. The Jeremiah Sullivan house is recognized nationally for its architectural design and preservation. The Sullivan family and its descendants have played important roles in local, state, and American history. Jeremiah Sullivan is credited with suggesting the name Indianapolis for our capital city. One son, Jeremiah Jr., was a Union General during the Civil War. Algernon, another son, founded Sullivan & Cromwell in New York City, today one of the world’s leading law firms. For additional information visit: www.historicmadisoninc.com.

In other news from the HMI Annual Meeting, John Staicer reported the following 2022 highlights and accomplishments:

HMI continued implementing its strategic plan by donating a large lot on Poplar Street, south of First Street, to the City of Madison to assist in ongoing riverfront development improvements. The lot was once the location for a planing mill, a button factory, and a boat shop. It will be transformed into an attractive green space with educational signage and other amenities;

Reopened the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Museum at 106 Milton Street featuring newly updated exhibits. The property was damaged in a 2021 flash flood;
Created a free virtual reality tour of the last 19th century saddletree factory in the US which has garnered national attention. The tour is VR headset compatible and is available at www.historicmadisoninc.com;
Partnered with the inaugural Madison Wild West Rodeo hosting special tours and events;
Community volunteers led tours for more than 6,000 visitors through HMI historic properties during special programs and regular tours. Volunteers also gave free architectural walking tours, researched, sorted and cataloged artifacts, and much more;
Announced the election of Tony Steinhardt, III to the HMI board of directors.

Staicer also reported on the organization’s other efforts in 2022 to enhance Madison’s quality of life through historic preservation:

HMI staff and volunteers are actively engaged with the City and the broader community on a number of exciting preservation and quality of life initiatives. These include the Madison Stellar Communities initiative, participation in the Jefferson County Tourism Alliance and assistance with other community preservation initiatives.

At the board meeting immediately after the Annual Meeting, the following officers were elected for one year terms: Kevin Yancey, Chair; John Staicer, President; Lisa Cutshall, Vice-President; John Muessel, Treasurer; and, Jill Wiest, Secretary.

Staicer announced upcoming highlights for 2023, which include:

A book signing April 30 from 2 to 4 pm at the Sullivan House by Dr. Carl Kramer author of Civil War Generals of Indiana
The return of youth programs including Heritage Days for 4th graders in Jefferson County and Archicamp set for July.

A joint program with the Lanier State Historic Site focusing on Greek Revival architecture and history set for August.
HMI Museum properties, including the Shrewsbury-Windle House, the Dr. Hutchings Office & Museum, Sullivan House, Costigan House are open for visitation. The Schroeder Saddletree Factory Museum opening will be announced later this spring. Days and hours vary – please follow our social media or check our website for details. Group tours are welcome year round with reservations.
Architecture Walking tours begin in May – see social media and website for details.
HMI Preservation Gala is set for June 9 at Shrewsbury-Windle House. More details about this ticketed event will be available in the near future.

Historic Madison, Inc. was founded in 1960 to save the Jeremiah Sullivan house from demolition. The non-profit organization plays a key role in the preservation, restoration, education, and development of the Madison community. Historic Madison continues to encourage preservation and restoration of buildings and monuments having historical and architectural significance; to provide additional museums for the public; and to encourage restoration of properties in Madison’s National Historic Landmark District. For more information about membership or volunteer opportunities, visit our website, www.historicmadisoninc.com, call us at 812-265-2967 or find us on social media