Attached please find our press release about an informational meeting at the Reddick Mansion Darlene Halm, left, docent committee chair, talks with John Weiss from Streator about some of the original furnishings at the Mansion. (Photo contributed)

OTTAWA – The Reddick Mansion Association invites anyone interested in becoming a docent (tour guide) at the mansion to an informational meeting at on Saturday, March 24 at 10 a.m. Docents take visitors through the Mansion while talking about the Reddick family, the history of the Mansion, and its place in local and national history.

Led by Darlene Halm, docent committee chair, this 1.5 to 2 hour session will include a discussion about the responsibilities of a docent and an in-depth tour of the Mansion. “Visitors to the Mansion usually have an interest in history, in old homes, or in architecture”, said Halm. “I enjoy sharing the Reddick Mansion story with them.”

In 2017, almost 4,400 people, representing 35 states and 5 foreign countries, visited the Mansion for tours and events. 

Currently, the Reddick Mansion is open for tours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday through Monday. “Our hope is that with more docents, we could open up the Mansion to visitors two more days a week,” said Lorraine McCallister, president of the Reddick Mansion Association. McCallister also noted that usually two to three people are scheduled per 3-4 hour shift. 

During the meeting, information packets will be provided as well as the opportunity to plan more one-on-one training. Interested persons are asked to contact the Mansion at (815) 433-6100 and speak with Darlene or Lorraine to ask any questions and to reserve their spot at the meeting.     

Built in 1858, the Reddick Mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites and also has meeting/reception rooms available for rent for special events.