The Elijah Iles Foundation, 628 South Seventh
Springfield, IL 62705 USA, (217) 492-5929
Tours Wed & Sat 12-4 pm or by appointment
E-Mail: ileshouse@juno.com
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Prairie Archives
One of Springfield's great cultural gems is Prairie Archives, launched by John Paul in 1971. This classic book store has become a fixture on the south side of the Old State Capitol Plaza. A recent story in the Chicago Tribune pays tribute to the store and its long tradition of serving history buffs who visit Springfield from all parts of the world.
Picture courtesy of Jerome Prophet, a current Springfield blog.
John Paul's store is, indeed, a treasure. I spent many a wonderful hour--and tons of money--in the original store, when I lived in Springfield. Out in Colorado for over twenty years now, nothing has ever relplaced it--partly, at least, because there is no one else quite like John Paul. I have visited the current location on several occasions, when back in Springfield, and it is always like coming home.
Thanks for your comment. I'm glad to know that JP's fame has spread far and wide. I live in NJ but plan to return to the Midwest in retirement. The quieter and slower pace looks good to me!
3 comments:
John Paul's store is, indeed, a treasure. I spent many a wonderful hour--and tons of money--in the original store, when I lived in Springfield. Out in Colorado for over twenty years now, nothing has ever relplaced it--partly, at least, because there is no one else quite like John Paul. I have visited the current location on several occasions, when back in Springfield, and it is always like coming home.
Melanie Mulhall
Hi Melanie,
Thanks for your comment. I'm glad to know that JP's fame has spread far and wide. I live in NJ but plan to return to the Midwest in retirement. The quieter and slower pace looks good to me!
Will
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