Shimer Square
203 E. Seminary Street, Mt. Carroll, IL
Mixed-Use
Shimer Square represents a transformative redevelopment initiative led by the GROWTH to revitalize the vacant former Shimer College campus nestled in the historic community of Mt. Carroll, IL. Committed to preserving the campus's unique character, historical significance, and integrity, GROWTH's revitalization effort emphasizes adaptive reuse and repurposing to create a modern mixed-use development that honors its past.
In 2023, construction commenced to enhance various facets of the campus, including preserving the campus' iconic front entry gate, implementing infrastructure improvements, establishing a Resource Center within the Sawyer House, and laying the groundwork for future redevelopment. A feasibility study conducted in 2023 overwhelmingly supported the establishment of an early childhood development center for families residing within a 30-minute radius of the campus. In February 2024, the historical, adaptive-reuse redevelopment of McKee Hall/ Hostetter Hall and Dezendorf Hall closed on financing. This monumental achievement paves the way for the transformation of the McKee Hall/ Hostetter Hall and Dezendorf Halls to be historically redeveloped into 51 units of quality rental apartments, boasting a diverse mix of studio, one, two, and three-bedroom layouts. Construction will be completed later in 2025, where GROWTH will proudly unveil its Resource Center, unveil 51 new studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and complete construction on its childcare center, where a licensed operator will staff and operate the facility. |
![]() GROWTH's redevelopment plan highlighted on the map features various initiatives, including a Resource Center, 51 rental housing units, an early childcare development center, and a construction office for subcontractors. This comprehensive effort also aims to lay the groundwork for future redevelopment efforts.
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GROWTH is committed to repurposing the contents of the Shimer Square campus whenever feasible. Licensed curators were engaged in the early stages to offer expertise in inventory management and preservation techniques. Their guidance assists GROWTH in responsibly caring for the historical items present on the campus.
![]() Name Changes Throughout History:
Mount Carroll Seminary (1853);
Frances Shimer Academy of the University of Chicago (1896);
Frances Shimer Academy and Junior College (1932);
Frances Shimer College (1942);
Shimer College (1950);
Restoration College Association (1970-80);
Campbell Center for Historic Preservation Studies (mid 1980's-2018);
Shimer Square (2019-current)
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