Community Outreach

Saving Santa

Saving Santa

The McLean County Museum of History is leading a restoration effort to save two iconic holiday Santas, once featured at the historic Livingston’s department store in Bloomington. These 14.5-foot Santas, introduced in the 1940s and displayed annually through the 1970s, became a beloved local symbol of the holiday season. Over time, the figures deteriorated and spent years in storage before a restoration project began. One Santa has already been fully restored and will be unveiled during a special dedication event on November 30, 2024.

To complete the restoration of the second Santa and preserve this cherished part of local history, Stark Excavating has partnered with the museum to launch a fundraising campaign. The project aims to raise $85,000 by December 31, 2024, to cover restoration costs and ensure these holiday figures can continue to bring joy to future generations. The community is invited to support the cause through donations, ensuring that this longstanding tradition remains part of Bloomington’s holiday celebrations for years to come.

More details can be found on the Saving Santa page.

Photos are property of the McLean County Museum of History.

saving-santa
saving santa
saving-santa
saving-santa
Recent Community Outreach
Day of The Dozer Article Preview Image

2024 Day of the Dozer

This year’s annual Day of the Dozer event was another huge success! On September 7th, visitors near and far came together to support the Great Plains Life Foundation’s “Stay 4” program. With over 1,500 children participating, the local community volunteers helped put on another great event.

SEE MORE
The annual Day of the Dozer 2024

Day of the Dozer 2023

The annual Day of the Dozer took place on September 9th at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. This unique event offers kids and their families the chance to witness heavy construction

SEE MORE
GO TO TOP