07/11/2026
This week, our community was reminded why preserving history takes all of us.
On Tuesday, thieves vandalized our historic Mausoleum and stripped it of its copper and brass. It’s heartbreaking to see a place dedicated to honoring those who came before us become the target of senseless theft.
But if there’s ever been a time to rally around Springdale, it’s now.
This week also marks the launch of the Springdale Historical Foundation Store, a project that has been especially meaningful to me as my first major initiative as President of the Foundation. Featuring designs by Lettering Works, every purchase helps support the preservation, restoration, and future of this incredible place we all love.
Whether it’s a t-shirt, hat, sweatshirt, or another piece of Springdale merchandise, you’re not just buying apparel. You’re helping protect one of Peoria’s greatest historic treasures.
🛍️ Shop here:
https://springdale-cemetery-historical-foundation-store.myshopify.com
And one more favor…
If you live in the neighborhoods surrounding Springdale Cemetery, please take a few minutes to check your security camera footage from Tuesday /early Wednesday morning. If you notice anything suspicious, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Peoria Police Department. Even the smallest detail could help.
Thank you to everyone who has supported the Foundation, volunteered, donated, or simply shared our passion for preserving Springdale. We aren’t going anywhere. If anything, this only strengthens our commitment.
Let’s show that our community cares more than the people who tried to take from it. ❤️
- Sarah Varnes, President of Springdale Historic Preservation Foundation
https://springdale-cemetery-historical-foundation-store.myshopify.com/?fbclid=IwdGRjcAS_BtZwZG9mAWZkaWQWUKVxwp_alLB67Bn9A1W18lDFVbppj2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR5E2ZHRblD1oUDCwkKMwKJMFr_4fHHUAvXCvoxph1MPFvEU-_spmBe1YuebKg_aem_yRYFZOFfpz4Vu2ZiS_L3vg
Support local history with official Springdale Cemetery merchandise. Every purchase benefits the Springdale Historic Foundation and helps preserve Peoria’s historic landmark.
