THE GLEN ELLYN HISTORICAL SOCIETY Established 1969
History in the making
The Founders Ball
The Founders ball was a gala evening attended by some 140 guests, many wearing outfits that would have been appropriate for Lincoln’s inaugural ball in 1865. After a sumptuous meal that was based on the bill of fare for President Lincoln’s 1865 inaugural event, dance music was provided by the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band. The period-authentic dances were led by costumed instructors who guided attendees through the steps.
Reinactors Max and Donna Daniels played the role of Abe and Mary Todd Lincoln, shown here about to lead the first dance of the evening.
The ballroom of the Crowne Plaza Hotel was the setting for the Founders Ball. The silent auction featured "items that money can't buy" such as dinner for eight at the historic Carty home, a home-made pie every month for a year, and a portrait of your home by artist Kay Wahlgren.
Bill Peterson, president of the Glen Ellyn Historical Society, and his wife, Heidie, circle the dance floor in grand style.
(Left to right) Al Lowry, Mark Herman and Joseph Salamunovich bridge the ages with this lively dance.
