The Prairie Landscape

The Studs Terkel Humanities Service Award - 2006


Richard Volkmer

Nominated By The Honorable David L. Brummel


Warrenville


Richard Volkmer

As both public official and citizen of Warrenville, Richard Volkmer has been instrumental in multiple initiatives that have raised the profile of the humanities in the city. While serving as City Alderman, he played a lead role in bringing forward a successful referendum to establish the Warrenville Public Library District in 1979; prior to that, the city had only a small volunteer library. He was next elected Mayor of Warrenville and served from 1981 to 1985. During this time, Mr. Volkmer negotiated the contribution of land for the first Warrenville Public Library building. Another successful project completed during his term as Mayor was the restoration of the 1835 Albright Studio building to house the newly created City Historical Museum. Mr. Volkmer led the efforts to bring the Museum under city ownership and maintenance responsibility. In 1995, he volunteered to chair the group that had formed to save the historic 1838 Warren Tavern from demolition for commercial development, the Warren Tavern Preservationists. Mr. Volkmer lead the efforts to renovate the building so it could be used for cultural and community events. As Mayor David Brummel puts it, "many facets of ‘the finer things in life' that have made Warrenville a more attractive place to live, raise a family, and do business have been positively affected by the way Richard Volkmer has dedicated his talents and hard work to the public benefit."

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