GOLCONDA – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced Thursday $41,500 in funding to support Main Street Golconda’s efforts to save the historic Sweetwater Saloon. Following Main Street Golconda’s pleas for emergency aid, Governor Pritzker called the organizers to offer his assistance and coordinate a grant funding opportunity to preserve the building that has been at the heart of Pope County since 1887.
“The Sweetwater Saloon has long been a cornerstone of Golconda’s economy, so when the community reached out for support to preserve the building, I directed my administration to take action and help save it,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With this grant funding, the State is proud to support the revitalization of this historic landmark, which will open doors for local businesses and drive economic development in the town.”
“While we have a long way to go in realizing our dream of a community and business center, the DCEO’s commitment to our preservation efforts is a great start,” said Jessica Wagner, Board President, Main Street Golconda. “We continue to seek experts in historic preservation and engineering so that we are able to accomplish our goal of maintaining as much of the historic facade to benefit the entire community and tourism in Southern Illinois.”
After the building partially collapsed in January, its rapidly deteriorating structural integrity put its future at risk without immediate action. The Sweetwater Saloon has been a cornerstone of Golconda – serving as both an opera house and a hub for the community to gather.
“DCEO’s commitment to bolstering economic development throughout Illinois shines through as the State provides critical support to save the historic Sweetwater Saloon in Golconda,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Grant funding will preserve the building that is beloved by the Golconda community while helping local businesses that have experienced negative impacts from the deteriorating landmark.”
“Thank you, Governor Pritzker and your DCEO team for your unwavering support in saving the Sweetwater Saloon building, a vital piece of our town’s history,” said Golconda Mayor Bradley. “This initiative ensures we are on the right track to rebuild this building, also known as the Young Opera House, a gathering place for our community for many years.”
The local economy has been suffering due to the building’s poor condition and safety concerns, which are directly affecting its neighboring businesses. Bolstered by State funding, Main Street Golconda plans to restore the landmark as a community event center, business incubator or visitor center – boosting economic development in the idyllic small town while preserving its rich history and protecting historic Golconda’s future.
