Galesburg, IL The Galesburg on Track Stewardship Team and the city’s Community Development Department have selected 1578 East Main Street as the recipient of the Community Blue Ribbon Award for February. The owner of the home, located in Galesburg’s Ward 2, is Michael Allcon. The award was announced at Monday’s council meeting by Second Ward Alderman Wayne Dennis. Multiple nominations for the property were received from Denise Johnson and Rory Speidel.

Extensive improvements were made on the property’s exterior including new siding, roof, decorative stonework, and an asphalt driveway and garage. A deck was also added as well as many landscaping elements. In 2021, Mr. Allcon purchased the adjacent lot to the west where he erected a pool and decorative fencing.

The house is an original Sears & Roebuck home, most likely purchased from the company’s catalog and delivered by railcar in precut, ready to assemble components. The Vallonia model was a very popular bungalow style built between 1920 and 1940 across the US. It is a classic example with its exposed rafters, forward gable dormer, and full width front porch with sturdy columns on brick piers. The 1928 base model price for the Vallonia was $1,500 to $2,000.

The Community Blue Ribbon Award recognizes efforts by residential property owners that contribute to a positive town image. Galesburg on Track is seeking nominations from the city’s third ward for the month of March. Nomination forms can be completed through the city’s website or by contacting a Galesburg on Track member.