Purpose: Support adaptive re-use of the 1850s historic Oak Cottage and 14,000-square foot Greene Barn in the Greene Valley Forest Preserve, Naperville, Illinois.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is considering demolishing Oak Cottage and not allowing public access to the barn. The barn benefitted from a $1.2M stabilization in 2012. A proposed updated Master Plan of the entire 1,388-acre Greene Valley Forest Preserve is currently underway and recommending demolition and exclusion to manage the cultural assets of Oak Cottage and Greene Barn. Your voice matters. Please consider signing this petition.

Cultural heritage is highly valued in DuPage County and beyond. It is embedded in the vision of the District: "Our Vision: The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is a nationally recognized conservation agency that envisions a community in which all citizens share a connection with nature and an appreciation for cultural history." dupageforest.org

In 1971, W.B. Greene donated the 10-acre farmstead and 2 buildings, and established an endowment fund for their care. He shared his hopes that the family homestead, its stories and public access would inform and contribute to the education, enjoyment and prosperity of future generations. TheGreeneBarn.org

Glaciers, aboriginal peoples, rivers, timber and stone, settlers, agricultural bounty, community, and contemporary trails and forest preserves all contribute to the essence of this special place along the East Branch of the DuPage River. Removal or denying access to significant historic structures limits inclusion and understanding of the past, lessens connections to nature, and dims inspiration for a shared future.

Elected Commissioners (7) to the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County will decide. They want to hear from the public, AKA their constituents, and are guided by staff and Master Plan consultant Stantec whose process encourages public involvement and comment.

This petition, presented by citizen advocates, seeks to expand specific public sentiment regarding the importance of public access to the interior and exterior of Oak Cottage and Greene Barn. Signing this petition indicates you are in favor of adaptive re-use of Oak Cottage and Greene Barn within the context of the mission of the District. 

Thank you for your consideration.