OLLI had a private, behind-the-scenes look at the Le Vieux Carre ("small quarters") building on Water Street in Downtown Peoria. The building was a former buggy and implement warehouse built in the 1800's. It is rumored that the warehouse once housed Al Capone's whiskey stills and gambling devices. Our guide Rex would not confirm nor deny the rumors, however he did comment that he had found many old bottles hidden here and there, as he has worked on the building for the past 17 years. OLLI members enjoyed the views of downtown as they wound through the halls and rooms of the six connected buildings that make up Le Vieux Carre. The building currently houses over 25 private apartments and business offices.
OLLI members also had the opportunity to tour the old Sealtest building, which is still in the process of being renovated into apartment and office space. One member, Donna Hamm, was especially keen to see inside the building as it was her former employer, originally Roszell Dairy, over 50 years ago.
To learn more about the Le Vieux Carre from Pat Sullivan, one of the co-developers of the building, read his interview.
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