Tallman House needs $2.5 million in repairs
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TALLMAN REPAIRS
A sampling of repairs needed at the Lincoln Tallman House, according to a new report:
Immediate priority
$350,000—Roof and gutter replacement
$130,000—Brick chimneys
$46,000—Masonry wall stabilization and repair
$34,000—Cupola
$32,000—Privy foundation wall stabilization and repair
$26,000—Gutter reframing and soffit framing repair
$3,000—Salvaging threatened ornaments
Near-term priority
$519,000—Masonry superstructure repointing
$189,000—Masonry foundation restoration
$130,000—Portico restoration
$65,000—Reinforcing or rebuilding stone retaining wall
$55,000—Storm window refurbishment
$51,000—Conservatory restoration
$33,000—Water management
$3,000—Resetting stone steps at conservatory stair
Long-term priority
$413,000—Masonry foundation restoration
$210,000—Carpentry work on soffits and friezes
$45,000—Carpentry work on carriage porch
$20,000—Site work
$16,500—Cast iron crow and sill restoration
JANESVILLE — The historic Tallman House needs $2.5 million in repairs, some of which must be done immediately to avoid damage to the building or its image, according to a new report.
The city-owned building is suffering from years of neglect, and a portion of the foundation is in danger of imminent collapse, according to the report.
In addition to repairs, the report recommends the historical society, which operates the house museum, revamp its programming to increase community awareness.
Finally, the report recommends a maintenance program to prevent future deterioration of the more than 150-year-old home.
The $18,000 report was commissioned by the city and authored by Engberg Anderson, a firm that specializes in historical architecture and restoration.
“Today, the house is at a turning point,” the report reads. “Several major condition problems are threatening the integrity of the building.”
The list of maladies tell the story:
-- A collapsed stone foundation.
-- A failing roof and leaking gutters.
-- Rotting soffits.
-- Inadequate site drainage.
-- Peeling paint.
-- Wood that is weathered, mildewed or rotten.
-- Eroding mortar joints.
-- Cracked and missing ornamentation.
-- A bowed retaining wall.
-- French doors that allow wind-swept rain into the home.
-- Chimneys that need pointing at the very least. Gravity alone holds the cage onto one chimney cap.
Although foundation walls have held up well over the years, insufficient or improper water run-off management and delayed maintenance have taken their toll and threaten not only the historic fabric but, in limited areas, the stability of the building, as well, according to the report.
The most immediate problem is a collapsed stone foundation wall in the privvy, a condition the report termed as dangerous.
“… A complete collapse of this portion of the foundation wall is imminent,” according to the report. “All signs point to water damage resulting from repeated or long-term neglected failure of the downspout.”
Consultants could see daylight through the foundation wall.
Two focal points most recognizable to residents are in danger of falling apart. The carvings on the portico, or front porch, are cracked and broken. The cupola finial is rotted, and the top could break off.
“Restoration of the portico will require the fabrication of in-kind replacement pieces for heavily deteriorated hand-carved ornament and trim in addition to a complete refinishing with quality primers and paints,” according to the report.
The report doesn’t even consider the carriage barn, which the city council several years ago learned has serious structural problems.
Over and over, the report lists the cause as a lack of maintenance. Some repairs, in fact, caused problems because they were done incorrectly or with the wrong materials.
Restoration that was done as the result of a fundraiser in 2006 has been lost because there was no money continuing maintenance and repairs, according to the report.
The report recommends qualified specialists do future repair and maintenance.
The needed repairs are ranked in priority to stop ongoing damage and buy time for the city to raise funds for a full restoration.
Money has been tight
The Tallman family gave the property to the city in the 1950s on the condition that the home be operated as a museum. The city will pay about $50,000 to the Rock County Historical Society for operations in 2009. Richard Ellingson, historical society board president, estimates that last year’s operations cost about $70,000, including staff and heat.
The extent of needed repairs surprised Ellingson and city staff.
Brad Cantrell, city liaison to the historical board, said the house has stood the test of time but now needs attention.
He suspects that the actual bids will be less than the estimated $2.4 million.
When asked about the reported long-term neglect, he said:
“Obviously, money has always been very tight and, I think, it’s just not been a high priority. I think that’s one of the reasons why money has not been spent there.
“We’ve been trying to do some very minor improvements to stabilize the building and the roof, and you only can do that so long until some major improvements are necessary.”
Degrees of support
The next step is to bring the report before the council, whose members have shown varying degrees of support for the Tallman House.
Cantrell hopes the community continues to support the historic structure, which he calls a Janesville icon.
When Cantrell first learned he would be working in Janesville, his college professor in Illinois noted that Janesville was home to one of the most outstanding house museums in the Midwest, Cantrell recalled.
“I didn’t know anything about Janesville, but I knew about the Tallman House,” Cantrell said.
“Janesville is filled with historic buildings, but we have few of this high quality, and I think it’s really important to the history of the city to make sure that buildings like this are preserved.
“My hope is that the community, even strapped with unemployment and dollars that are very, very scarce at this time, would embrace (the Tallman House) and say that this is important.”
Madge Murphy, executive director of the society, said the Tallman House is the city’s heritage, a grand house that also has the Lincoln connection.
“It’s something for us to be proud of,” she said.
“I’ve lived here and watched things disappear. We all look at the parking lot that was the Myers Theater.
“I don’t think anyone wants the Tallman House to disappear.”
Change in mission needed: Experts
The Lincoln Tallman House must reinvent itself while maintaining its original function as a house museum, according to historical experts.
House museums across the country are scrambling to find ways to attract visitors as attendance drops along with funding. Annual attendance at the Lincoln Tallman House has been at about 4,300 the last several years.
The house’s collection—much of it original—is important to show a slice of life from 1855-1870, said a team from Engberg Anderson. But that focus is limited and is not economically and culturally viable, according to a report commissioned by the city and authored by Engberg Anderson, a firm that specializes in historical architecture and restoration.
“Low number of visitors and low profile in the public eye have arguably contributed to a low priority for municipal funding,” the report reads.
To simply restore the building without taking into account its use would likely result in a repeat of history, according to the report.
A balance should be struck between preserving the artifacts and making history come alive and be relevant.
“Such continued relevance in the public eye can only help with future funding,” the report reads.
The authors suggested festivals, themed gatherings and receptions. The carriage house could be restored to include a catering kitchen. Re-creating a Lincoln-Douglas debate or abolitionist rally could emphasize the Lincoln connection.
Richard Ellingson, president of the Rock County Historical Society board, said the society has started to expand its programming and is continuing to look for ways to enhance the building’s use.
A recent speaker on Lincoln, for example, filled the two first-floor parlor rooms. The board is expanding the Tallman Arts Festival to two days and has decided to open the house to small gatherings, such as club meetings.
“The board is definitely looking at ways to open the house up,” Ellingson said.
Brad Cantrell, liaisons for the city, agreed with the report’s conclusion.
“I think programming is going to be a key to maybe the future funding stream for maintenance,” Cantrell said.
“It needs to be more of a part of the community, and there needs to be a reason for people to go back.”
Only the finest for the Tallman House
Don’t we all wish we had a roof that lasted 150 years plus?
Unbelievably, the tin roof at the Lincoln Tallman House is the original, put on before the mansion was finished in 1857.
The roof is one of the things that’s so special about the structure, which wowed a team of historical experts with its lavish detail, best-of-the-best materials and state-of-the-art construction.
The architects’ subsequent report was filled with such words as “superb” and exemplary.”
William Tallman was a lawyer working out east when he bought 4,476 acres of Wisconsin Territory in the late 1840s and moved his family to Janesville to keep closer watch of his holdings.
Construction of the home at 440 N. Jackson St. began in 1855 on a 3-acre bluff overlooking the Rock River on what was then the north edge of Janesville.
High-quality materials included Milwaukee Cream City Brick, cast iron on the windows and black walnut doors with hand-carved panels.
The original cost was $33,000 in gold. Additional work finished in 1870 brought the total to $42,000.
The Tallman House roof outlasted even that on Monticello, one of the architects told Madge Murphy, executive director of the historical society.
The terne, or tin-plated metal roof is an “incredible example of mid-19th century building technology,” according to the report.
The team recommends that the roof be replaced with a painted copper roof.
Apr 12, 2009 at 11:17 a.m.
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"tea parties"? hannah. Don't get thekid all worked-up.
Apr 12, 2009 at 11:04 a.m.
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http://www.meekermansion.org/teas.html
Apr 12, 2009 at 11:01 a.m.
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they need to open it up to tea parties and bridal showers and meetings or something to generate revenue. i went to Meeker mansion in Tacoma Seattle and they were having a bridal shower that day. They just open a couple of rooms for this. We didnt ge tto tour that day but I am sure they raised more money from the shower than the three of us touring it. We did get to pick in briefly for free and they gave us a booklet for free too. Could be they didnt do this before the place needs a lot of work to from what i could see just with naked eye.
Apr 11, 2009 at 1:49 a.m.
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Burn it down!
Apr 7, 2009 at 3 p.m.
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I tend to agree with the CallitasIseeit post wondering why the Tallman residence and Ice Skating Center are suffering from years of neglect. Over the past 30 years literally NOTHING has been done to the Skating Center but adding coats of paint. While new boards, glass and rubber flooring was installed a few years ago, the most important part of the facility was left to rot. The same thing has happened with the Tallman House. Now the city (actually us the taxpayer) is left with huge bills just to keep each facility open, much less attempting to bring the properties back to their former splendor. Talk about shortsighted. What have our EMPLOYED city managers been doing over the last half 30 years? I believe both facilities are tremendous assets to this community and surrounding area. Every effort should be made to keep them open and available to the public. Those, whose PAID responsibility it is (or was) for watching over OUR assets should hang their heads in shame. Unfortunately, those mostly responsible are probably no longer employed by the city but the ruins they left behind certainly typifies their deficient and limited leadership skills. Had they been doing their jobs we wouldn't be having discussions regarding the Tallman House and Ice Skating Center repairs.
Apr 6, 2009 at 10:24 p.m.
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Hey Madman 1961......thanks for noticing that I have asked 3 times.... I do think it behooves the Rock County Historical Society to find or form a task force to write these grants. Perhaps they ASK for volunteers, etc for a committee. Sorry, I cannot do so, as I do not live in WI, though I am a native. I have been involved with a similar 'cause' in MN, thus, my statements regarding 'grants', etc. Sure hope the RCHS finds a solution......I do think it is their job to somehow resolve it. Best Wishes.
Apr 6, 2009 at 9:40 p.m.
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Sidebar...
...You've asked three times and no one has jumped up to form the committee that you want formed...so I guess it's up to you.
Have fun.
And no...I can't...I still have a job.
Apr 6, 2009 at 3:47 p.m.
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I odnt know how long Madge Murphy has been in charge of rchs but I can see why things have fallen behind.
Apr 6, 2009 at 3:20 p.m.
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Still asking here......would a task force or committee take charge and apply for GRANTS (if this home is listed on the historical homes-non profit 501-3C). There are many organizations and entities who need to donate to causes such as this......big $$ too. Local labor can still be used. I guess I would like to hear if the 'city' or whomever's in charge, has ever considered a committee to write GRANTS or any other options for that matter.
Apr 6, 2009 at 3:18 p.m.
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I still say that if the Rock County Historical Society, the group who is responsible for the caretaking of the building, has not done it's job to this point - ask them to resign!!!
Then we could invest some our tax dollars in getting some funds raised or grants applied for to save this gem. This is an important peice our history!
Apr 6, 2009 at 2:57 p.m.
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Wonder if they have checked with the Jeffris Estate, a philanthropic organization that donates money to worthy causes. The Jeffris family owned the downtown movie theater, etc. before the City moved to Milton avenue, so maybe that org could help offset costs! I also like the "using local craftsman" to perform the duties - many would do so for less than what the estimates are - and we have some of the best craftsman around - so don't be fooled by the "we have to use historical preservationists" that charge twice the price - but HEY, that is the rule of government spending, "why build one when we can build two for twice the price."
Apr 6, 2009 at 12:03 p.m.
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truth1- they are discussing doing something with the roof and selling it piece by piece.
yes the $18k to look at the problems sounds ridiculous!!!!!Why didnt they just hire the guy that checks out your home before you buy it for $2000 ish. it is a big house.
$350 for a roof sounds inflated as well are they switching from copper to gold plated???
i would like it fixed and to keep it instead of just leveling another historic building.
I have also given my personal time to raise funds for this building. and will continue to do so in the future.
Apr 6, 2009 at 11:53 a.m.
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The comment was made "how do you know where your going if you don't know where you have been" You got to be kidding me, if this never existed I doubt if it would change your way of living one bit! I bet if you had an gangrene in your leg you'd get rid of the leg. This is a money pit get rid of it.
Apr 6, 2009 at 11:22 a.m.
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Just serve alcohol and food, make it a bar.
"Come in and have a tall one at Tallman's Bar and Grill"
Thank You For Not Smoking
Apr 6, 2009 at 10:07 a.m.
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oops - boost
Apr 6, 2009 at 10:06 a.m.
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Serve beer and you'll really bost attendance, too.
Apr 6, 2009 at 10:05 a.m.
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Can the new hockey team play at Tallman :)
Apr 6, 2009 at 9 a.m.
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2.5 million is not in the budget for Janesville now or anytime in the near future people. Yes it's sad the building is falling apart but to say we need to pay for the repair is beyond outrageous. If there was a vote to repair or not repair I could almost guarantee it's not going to pass. The answer will need to come from the deep pockets of Janesville. The historical society elitist need to pony up if they so desire to maintain this property. Maybe the Hedbergs would like to donate the money and put their name on the building? Maybe the State of Wisconsin wants to step in and save the property since it has some Presidential historic value? To raise taxes for this would be asking for trouble with the current economic situation in the area. I really don’t agree that any Federal, State or Local tax dollars should be spent on this project as we’re already spending like a drunken sailor on a weekend pass. Just my opinion.
Apr 6, 2009 at 8:28 a.m.
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There is much more to a city than streets and gutters, and ignoring the Tallman House diminishes the history of our community that spans generations. The current condition of the Tallman House is the direct result of the negligence of the past City Manager and the current City Council. The necessary and immediately needed repairs will cost much less than $2.5 million, a self-serving number pulled out of the air by a consultant. In today's economy there are many well-qualified tradesmen who would love to work on this project at reasonable rates of pay. There are many complementary activities that could go on at the Tallman House that could raise funds for operations. The capital improvements and neglected maintenance should be high priorities for this city. Otherwise, it's proof that we may be a city, but we're not a community.
Apr 6, 2009 at 12:43 a.m.
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No matter what people think of the historical value of the Tallman house to spend 2.5 million dollars in this enconomy is crazy. If they tore it down I don't think many people would care. Lets spend 2.5 million on helping the community to be a better place to live.
Apr 5, 2009 at 11:05 p.m.
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How did Milton restore the Milton House? Grants? Financial donations? Donations of skilled labor? Some well-worded requests to some of the wealthier inhabitants of the city could get the ball rolling financially. Milton sold personalized bricks as one fund raiser. You could memorialize your family name, or a loved one's name via endowing a brick for the walkway.
Whether Lincoln slept there or not, it is still a great historial example of Janesville life for school field trip purposes.
Even though $2.5M is a daunting amount, it needs to be preserved. How many Tallman House-like homes are ready to take its place? Am reminded of Kansas City, which grew so fast they built right over the cattle baron mansions, etc., before they realized the relevance of historically preserving those "old houses". Once they're gone, they're gone forever.
Apr 5, 2009 at 11:01 p.m.
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not really
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:57 p.m.
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Does anyone want to know my opinion on this issue?
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:35 p.m.
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"This problem didnt just happen overnight you know."
THAT is precisely the problem...and why the CITY should have nothing to do with it.
They can't seem to take care of anything.
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:16 p.m.
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and finally, I suppose I can asume all you Tallman house bashers are running for city council or you have already served on the council when all these issues happen?? Or are all you just simply armchair quarterbacks ???? This problem didnt just happen overnight you know. So people, Get involed and get the heck off gazetteexta.com and instead do something about it!!!
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:11 p.m.
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Rooster, if you dont know where you come from, How will you know where you are going? Our history completes that link. Should we bulldoze the Whitehouse? Our capital? All other historic buildings because it requires funds for upkeep? Hell, I've put more money into MY home for upkeep then the city has for the Tallman house in the last 20 years. Visit Europe sometime and tell me if America appreciates it's history?? NOT!!!!!
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:05 p.m.
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I just want Janesville people aware what other cities have done to keep and showcase historic homes. My God we cant even put our Tallman home on the Janesville Historic House tour!!!! I cant imagaine what vistors think when visting Janesville and the Tallman House!!! I wonder if visitors will like the bike tunnel!!!!
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:03 p.m.
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this is for the people that think it is a good idea to preserve this stupid building. buy it and restore it yourselves and charge the folks to tour it. see how great an investment that will be. a lousy one i think. if in fact, not a good investment, why would anyone want the city to pony up to fix up another looser project. but hey, what does it matter what the majority in the city might think. like the ice rink and the bicycle tunnel to no where, they will darn will do what they want and to heck with the tax paying citizens.
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:02 p.m.
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You can read why this home's history is important at this link. http://www.in.gov/ism/StateHistoricSites.... The elegant spiral inside staircase is amazing and would be just awful if this house was just buldozed over as earlier postings suggested with our Tallman House.
Apr 5, 2009 at 9:52 p.m.
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People, please check out http://www.oldmadison.com/homes/lanier.h.... This is how a historic house should be run and maintained. It's located in Madison, IN is a JEWEL! Vistors come from all over to see it. It is an amzing house, with a great hostory, just like the Tallman House. The designer of the Lanier House also designed the WI School for the Blind right here in Janesville so there is a Janesville connection. The problem with the Tallman house is the city's ownership!! It should be owned by people that actually care! The home is in despicable condition and Janesville should be ashamed. The city and RCHS just dont get it!
Apr 5, 2009 at 9:24 p.m.
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Take some pictures of it than bull doze it down. Don't you think we wasted enough money on it. What do you think people will say 100 years from now? Man these people were nuts for sticking all the money it a building while they have homeless people living under bridges and children not being fed and they want to stick a few million in a building that's falling down! Not to mention the tunnel or the gardens they want to stick more money into.I got a better idea lets plow up Rotary Gardens and plant something people can eat!!!!
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:44 p.m.
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moredoug-Yeah, I was thinking that too.
.
I think contractors do a lot of estimating for less than $18,000
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:40 p.m.
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Possibly they could sell pieces of the old roof to people for a collectors piece???????
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:31 p.m.
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$350,000 for roof repairs! Ha ha ha ha, $18,000 just for the report! Man, Janesville politicians are starting sound more and more like Mayor Daley's cronies!
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:29 p.m.
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Now I am asking again..... what about having a task force engaged in writing GRANTS for these issues? Just wondering if this has been considered. I know of other (501-3C) non-profit Historical Homes who have done so and have rec'd huge monies for their cause. So, does anyone know if this has been considered??
Apr 5, 2009 at 7:50 p.m.
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Maybe we should be looking more toward the root of the issue here.... Yes, the City of Janesville owns this building, but it is in the care of the Rock County Historical Society. Read between the lines folks, It certainly sounds like the Historic Society is not even thinking about all of this preventative care. Why did they need to spend 18k for a consultant to tell them to get more people in so it can generate revenue? Anyone with half a brain could have identified that issue. Maybe both the President and Executive Director of the Rock County Historical Society should step down due to not doing the basic functions of their jobs. This house really could be the jewel of Janesville and it is a shame that it is not reaching its full potential.
Apr 5, 2009 at 6:56 p.m.
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This is yet another example of why the city should limit itself to public safety and infrastructure.
They are in a constant struggle to get even the basics right.
Apr 5, 2009 at 6:39 p.m.
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The city would be wise to consult the volunteers who organized and repaired the Beckman Mill, as far as how to go about enlisting volunteers for a project like this and fund raising. I'm sure that an organization dedicated to this task would be successful. Their project was in MUCH worse shape than this (one wall already starting to fall over), plus the basically mase a NEW dam, after securing all the neccessary approval from the DNR, this would be small compared to what they had to do to save Beckman Mill.
Apr 5, 2009 at 6:29 p.m.
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This historic house needs to be saved. With old houses, you can choose one of two plans, one is pay now, the other is pay later. Janesville apparently had been on the pay later plan.
Apr 5, 2009 at 5:28 p.m.
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not worth it, whoever said take the money from the bike trail and use it for the tallman house, more ppl probably use the bike trails in one week than as many people go through the tallman house in a year.
Apr 5, 2009 at 5:15 p.m.
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any property the city owns is neglegeted and not kept up look at dawson ball park, rockport pool riverside park Ice areana. they just keep buying more and doing less
Apr 5, 2009 at 4:51 p.m.
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We have at least 6000 unemployed workers in this city. People are losing their homes and unable to afford groceries. Can we really justify 2.5 million dollars to restore one home that no family lives in? If we have 2.5 mill. sitting around, maybe we should help out ECHO and the Salvation Army. This is a very novel idea however, now is not the time for novel ideas. Now seems a time for making sure that our citizens are fed and have roofs.
Apr 5, 2009 at 4:50 p.m.
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Please vote in the poll on Yuri's blog about how you feel about funding the repairs.
http://www.yurirashkin.com/
Apr 5, 2009 at 4:41 p.m.
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Any other property would be condemned. Sad way to to take care of an old historic property. Find some private funds now is not the time. Maybe a great this Old House special...
Apr 5, 2009 at 4:30 p.m.
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Preservation of our historical buildings is important - these buildings and places are what makes Janesville unique - different from every other town in the US, (with McDonald's on every corner) and acres and acres of ranch style houses. I would rather have 1 building of wonderful than a whole city full of nothing special. The way our City has neglected "to take care of what we have" is unforgivable. We continue to build outward, at a huge cost to the taxpayer (infrastructure) while our historic and unique buildings and neighborhoods deteriorate. I agree with many on this post, that the cost estimates seem inflated, and I don't understand why our City constantly pays thousands of dollars for consultants, when we have professionals right here in Janesville, that would contribute to our City for some recognition, and a free lunch (or at least a tax break). Janesville people taking care of Janesville is what we need! Can we do some fundraising? Ask local vendors to provide materials for cost, or slightly above? Use local builders, carpenters and craftsman to do the work for less than bringing in higher priced professionals from other areas? We have professionals right here! Those that don't want to pay for renovations, can donate time to either fundraising efforts, or help with restoration, or maintenance of the property - most people can push a lawn mower! This building is part of our history. Don't discount that as unimportant. We need to find ways to help the Tallman House/Historical Society pay for restorations and day to day operations - with some fresh new ideas. Be sure to VOTE ON APRIL 7TH if you want to see changes in the way we take care of our City! There are solutions out there - we need to work together to find them!
Apr 5, 2009 at 2:57 p.m.
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No excuse for neglect, if it were a historic house in janesville and the owner didn't keep up they'd be in trouble. Why not the same treatment, not to mention it's a BIG part of history we have in janesville and this is how it's treated?
Apr 5, 2009 at 2:22 p.m.
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Enlist volunteers, I would love to help!
Apr 5, 2009 at 2:14 p.m.
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I think they are just going to have to do repairs just like anyone else in that neighborhood does. Have local contractors do it to normal building standards for 50K - then when the Tallman house can raise $2,500,000.00 to have someone do it their standards then have at it.........
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:39 p.m.
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couldnt have said it better myself rex.. no reason for this eyesore to be around... living in the "past" is what screws everything up. we need to look forward to the future!
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:39 p.m.
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:38 p.m.
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billnewbie, how the does the city manager being "insulated" from the voters account for the condition of the Tallman House?!
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:34 p.m.
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Rather city council or mayor, no one will ever be satisfied by the way the local government is run. That is a reality of life.
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:30 p.m.
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Everytime funding comes up for the Tallman museum, the people of Janesville say we don't need to spend the money on it. So year after year the home slowly deteriates to its present state of disrepair and now the bill comes due and as is the case, that city council let this happen. Yes, 2.5 million is a lot of money but then it when it was maybe only $100,000.00, well that was too much to.
Why don't we just let the building crumble down on itself and then when we have people who want to come see it, we show them the pile of rubble of the home that Licoln slept in.
You all came to the defense of the building by the new police station saying it was historical and now there it stands, empty. How many tourist have visited it? You? How much of our city taxpayer funds are going to preserve that building? Everytime the city wants to raze an old building, stop, it is historical, it's part of Janesville's history and we have to save it for future generations. It is a shame so many of the people of Janesville no longer care, I mean really care about that which is a part of history and should be preserved before it is lost forever. Maybe the Tallman Museum is only a small part but it is our part of history that ties us to the building of this nation and one of the great Presidents of the United States. Do you really want to see it destroyed? Let's come up with some ideas on how to raise the money with a little help from the government.
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:13 p.m.
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Rex- right on!. Also my last point I forgot the word NOT before the word spend.
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:06 p.m.
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This is what happens when you have to come up with budget cuts every year.. Preventative maintenance is the first to go as nobody wants to raise taxes. This is the same thing that is happening to all the school districts in the area..and is what happened to your computer system in the school district. In a few years all the public buildings will be crumbling.
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:54 p.m.
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Maybe the wrecking crew for the GM site can take care of the Tallman site too. A couple of bulldozers could permanently fix the problem in less than a day.
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:46 p.m.
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I'd better see every pothole on every street in this city repaired before one stinkin' dime is spent to repair this eye sore. Otherwise, "stimulate" some jobs by getting some contractor bids to bulldoze it. Wake up folks, the days of spending millions of OUR dollars for projects like this so that we can all join hands and sing happy, happy, joy, joy are OVER! It's wasteful crap spending like this that has this state in a $6 billion dollar deficit, and I for one am tired of the Feds, the state, the county and the city reaching in my pocket to finance their wishlist spending. Enough is enough! If that's not artistic and caring enough for those of you who just can't seem to pay enough taxes, I got two words for you...tough crap.
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:38 p.m.
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I too think it's time this town got a rid of the city manager system and elected a mayor. We really need someone that can make the right descisions at this time and spend money stupidly.
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:27 p.m.
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This kind of unresponsive city administration is a byproduct of the city manager form of government we have. Our elected city council does not have direct control of the administration. Therefore they are insulated from much of the responsibility for the things that happen. The city manager is also insulated from accountability to the voters. The result is that Tallman House maintenance is neglected, frivolous projects are undertaken and the needs of the citizens become secondary considerations. As flawed as it is, a mayoral system at least holds the person who really makes the decisions directly accountable to voters unlike our city manager who has a contract with the kind of job security that should never be given to a public administrator.
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
Another example that comes to mind of the mindset of the "powers that be", regarding preventative maintenance, is the siyuation with the school system's computers. Nuff said?
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
Obviously, no one's going to be able to come up with the $2.5 million in our current situation, but they should turn over EVERY stone in "stimulus" funding to find it. Once we're caught up from the incompetence of our city fathers/mothers, there's at least a chance we could find the funds for the ongoing expenses. And, by all means,let's move this treasure higher on the list of priorities than the bike tunnel boondoggle!
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
Callitaseeit, Trust me, The former city manager nor councils didn't care. it's been like this for years!
Apr 5, 2009 at 12:02 p.m.
Suggest removal
Yuri,
You never listen to or act upon what the "average" citizen says or would like to see done in any given particular issue. In fact, None of you "good ole boys" ever do. You all seem to have your own personal agendas so why even bother with your blog spot. You never did anything in one particular caes that I know of other than to "side" with the "good ole boys" and berate us citizens. If you ever decide to run again, You certainly won't get my vote! I hope good change comes of the elections on april 7th.
Apr 5, 2009 at 11:47 a.m.
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How in the world did our city allow the Tallman House and the ice rink to fall into such states of disrepair? This shows a complete lack of management and direction. Did they think if they ignored these problems they would go away? What sort of a mess has the previous administration left our new City Manager in? How many more of these surprises are out there? We have a plan in place to see how much farm land we can cement under in the next 100 years but have no idea what preventive maintenance is.
Apr 5, 2009 at 11:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
See the Conditions Report for the Tallman House and state your preference on whether the money should be spent at www.YuriRashkin.blogspot.com
Apr 5, 2009 at 11:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
We need to restore it properly, and that means using professionals and specialists. Some of the materials are rarely used today and your average contractor will have no experience with them. Shoring up the privy alone, with maximum safety for both the building and workers, will be quite a task.
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The building's significance is not limited to Lincoln's brief visit. Tallman was a leading figure in the early history of Janesville, and this house is indeed a very rare gem, one of the finest of its era, size, and type in the country. It's unfortunate that isn't enough for people -- either for citizens to feel a connection or for tourists to bounce off the Interstate.
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The society was severely impacted by the bankruptcy of a contractor on the prior restoration (when the fence was added, around 1996), because they were socked with various construction liens from the suppliers and were insufficiently insured. They've struggled ever since. This limits their ability to attract more visitors with advertising or jazzed up interpretation. It hasn't helped that even in good times the city always pleads poverty and defers maintenance. The end result of such a policy is obvious.
Apr 5, 2009 at 11:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
If this home is registered on the list of Historic Homes (501-3C non-profit), perhaps a task force could look into writing various GRANTS. If acquired, these monies could certainly address the many needs of this landmark. There are many charitable entities out there, who give major money for 'non-profit' historical venues such as ths home. Just a thought.
Apr 5, 2009 at 11 a.m.
Suggest removal
I wonder how much restoration would cost if we use non-union labor?
Can those who support this restoration organize enough bake sales before it crumbles?
Maybe the city can squeeze out some funds from the stimulus package that's soon to arrive.
Maybe Senators Kohl or Feingold can earmark some funds from the next stimulus package.
Maybe the citizens of Janesville won't mind a hefty tax increase to pay for this and a hockey rink and a children's museum and a pedestrian tunnel under every dangerous intersection and shiny new sewer caps on every manhole.
Apr 5, 2009 at 10:55 a.m.
Suggest removal
Put the children's museum there.
Apr 5, 2009 at 9:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
FIX IT!
http://www.hulu.com/watch/38477/saturday...
Apr 5, 2009 at 9:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
What about volunteers?? What about some of the companies in this community actually give back. Let the city pay for supplies, but let the labor come from volunteers.. There are plenty of people in Janesville, Rock County who have the knowledge and the time to help fix some of these things. They would be able to fix it at a fraction of the estimates if people gave of their time. I can not roof, but I am willing to do other things.
Apr 5, 2009 at 9:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
The quote for $2.5 mil seems a bit excessive... $350K for a new roof and gutters? I'm sure some of this stuff could be done for 1/3rd of the price! If they're going to spend the money on this stuff- hopefully they use some local companies to do any of the work..
Apr 5, 2009 at 9:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
Every week there is a new cause. Forget the tunnel,forget the ice rink, and cut that school budget. Start some fund raisers to help this thing along. FIRE everyone that was responsable for this fiasco- I mean everyone. Put someone else in charge of it.
On a side note- when I was going to school we were taught that Lincoln came to Janesville but there was no real proof where he spent the nights. It was assumed it was the Tallman house but it was not documented. I see that time has changed history.
I think for $2,500,000.00 we could build 4 or so tallman houses..........
Apr 5, 2009 at 9:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
i have a theory. if the school board and/or the city council wanted to hear our opinions, they would read these things and chime in. but i don't believe they do want our opinions because they still spend our money like water on stuff we don't need. in one of my comments i wrote "i don't trust the city council." i received a e-mail response from a reader who did not identify himself and in the e-mail defended the city council. of course, he was a city council member and i did reply by e-mail and told him why i didn't trust them (or for that matter, the school board). i never heard from him again. no surprise. no dialogue. no nothing. gazetterooster@gmail.com
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:56 a.m.
Suggest removal
Yes, that thing is not a shrine. Honest Abe meant to sleep there one night and stayed two nights because he couldn't find his shoes. BIG DEAL!!!
Condo it out or something. Put a plaque in front of it about the Ol' Railsplitter staying there and that he especially liked the indoor outhouse.
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
This city needs to prioritize their spending! Get rid of new ideas and stick to your obligations!
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
We don't need to put that much money into something that isn't worth it. There are many other needs in this area that could use the money.There are too many people out of work to justify spending that much money on one project.
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
sell it. privatize it. or if you really need the cash, ask the city council (by extension the taxpayer.) the school board, they love to spend money for anything (by extension the taxpayer) or obama earmark (the house to nowhere) i've lived in janesville 35 years and have never been there. if i want to see antiques, i just look at my furniture. (with all the taxes i pay, i can't afford new anyway.}
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
18,000 for the report?
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
Two words....MONEY PIT
Apr 5, 2009 at 7:23 a.m.
Suggest removal
It could be her Royal Palace when B'moon becomes queen of the universe.
Apr 5, 2009 at 7:21 a.m.
Suggest removal
The Tallman House is one of the only cool things in this city. Hope they take care of it. The City of Jville has spent buckets of money over the years on other things, why not give some attention to a historic landmark.
Apr 5, 2009 at 7:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
Forget the bike tunnel and put the money here.
Apr 5, 2009 at 6:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
Bulldoze it and be done.
Apr 5, 2009 at 6:28 a.m.
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Bed and Breakfast.
Apr 5, 2009 at 5:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
This is ridiculous.. WHY was it left to get in such bad shape to begin with.. FIX IT>> and from now on take of it.. IT is historic.. it is very unique.. Shame on city officials for allowing this beautiful home to be so neglected. Fix it as it needs it from now on, and it won't cost near as much.
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
SHould had never been neglected in the first place. But as per Janesville Gov norm, lets put off doing preventative maintanance until it requires extensive repair that would cost 10+ more times to fix than it would had just doing the proper PM.
Apr 5, 2009 at 1:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
tear it down. They would condemn it if Ms. Briarmoon owned it. I as a taxpayer do not want to pay for the repairs. Especially in this economy. there is no way that Tallman house drives enough revenue to justify this cost.
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