Refurbishing Project for Andover's Historic Bandstand
We are pleased that funds are being raised to refurbish the historic bandstand at the Andover Lake Park. It is anticipated the project will cost $65,000. The Geneseo Foundation is matching funds $1 for every $2 raised up to $10,000. The Coulter Trust granted $5,000 for the project; and, as of December 31, 2020, $4,900 has been received in donations.
Those donating to the fund will be entered in a drawing for a beautiful framed print of the bandstand, created by local artist Jeff Selander. Mr. Selander was commissioned to do the painting entitled, "They're Playing Our Song," in 2015 for Andover's 180th anniversary (Note: This print is on display at the inner lobby of the Andover Post Office).
To contribute, make checks payable to Andover Park Bandstand Fund, and mail to PO Box 228, Andover, IL 61233. The plans for the 161-year old bandstand are to repair the floor, install a new roof, ceiling and lighting, and repair and paint all wood pillars and seats.
When Andover's first two-story school was built in 1860, the bandstand was constructed just north of the school on the west side of the colony square, which eventually was developed into the Andover Lake Park. For many decades, bands and entertainers performed at the bandstand on the school grounds.
In the 1920's, a lake was dredged in the middle of the ten-acre block, and a park was established. In the 1930's, the bandstand was moved to the east side of the lake, loads of sand were hauled in to make a large beach on the east side of the lake, bathhouses were erected and a large diving board was built in the lake.
People from miles around flocked to the park for picnics, swimming, fishing, baseball games, weekly movies and community church services during the summer months. Today, the bandstand is used throughout the year for festivals, concerts, weddings and Christmas events.