Get Involved
The James Millikin Homestead, Inc., is a not for profit corporation created in 1976 to restore and preserve the interior of this irreplaceable Decatur landmark. A revised mission statement, created in the fall of 2019 states: Through preservation of the Homestead, we engage, educate, and entertain visitors with the stories of the Millikins and Decatur.
To fulfill the Homestead, Inc.’s mission, fundraising is an essential activity. Financial support of the Homestead is generated through memberships, fundraising events, grants, and donations. As funds are generated, restoration projects are evaluated and planned. Restoration projects have included the embellishment of ceilings and walls throughout the home, restoration and repair of the stained glass window, installation of new storm windows, and replacement of HVAC systems. In the summer of 2023 we replaced the roof, replaced 3 of the 5 chimney caps with beautiful, new, copper chimney caps, and refurbished 25% of the cresting and purchased 75% new cresting for the roof. Our future projects, which are also our biggest projects, are the restoration of the tower and our porches. This will be a very large undertaking and we are in the beginning steps of planning. It will take fundraising on a big scale, so if you would like to help us with this project, please reach out to one of the board members!
Memberships
The James Millikin Homestead relies on annual memberships to maintain the home and to take steps toward needed restorations and repairs. The support of our members is the lifeblood of this historic home in our community. Members provide not only financial assistance but also the commitment required to keep the Homestead a vital part of Decatur’s historic fabric.
An Organizational Membership has been added to give businesses, clubs and other structured groups the opportunity to support the Homestead.
We look forward to providing programming for our members in the coming year that will welcome you back into the Homestead and remind you of the treasure your membership dues help to protect.
Membership Options
| Friend | $35.00 per year |
| Benefactor | $50.00 per year |
| Patron | $100.00 per year |
| Organizational | $300.00 per year |
| Life Patron | $1,000.00 per year (May be paid in four installments) |
| To become a member or to renew your membership, please download our Membership Form and mail it to: The James Millikin Homestead 125 North Pine Street Decatur, Illinois 62522 |
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Benefits of Membership
The Homestead annual membership year is March 1st thru February 28th with renewals sent in February each year. However, we invite potential members to join us at any time!
Participation in preservation of the historic heritage of Decatur.
Free admission to regular Sunday Open Houses
Advance notice of Homestead-sponsored events
Subscription to the The Homestead Gazette quarterly newsletter
25% discount on Homestead rentals
NEW Member Benefit
We now have a private Facebook Group only for members where you can see the latest news, updates, and even broadcasts from some of our live events!
Volunteer Opportunities
The James Millikin Homestead welcomes volunteers! Volunteers are very important to the Homestead; bringing expanded, specialized resources and creating ties to the community. Tour guides are needed to provide knowledgeable tours of the Homestead for visitors of all ages. Volunteer assistance with event staffing and baking for the Christmas Open House are indispensable. If you have an interest in sharing your abilities with the Homestead, please contact us.
For more information about becoming a volunteer, call the Homestead at 217-422-9003 or email [email protected]