The Gifford Park Association (GPA) is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 1979. The goal of GPA is the revitalization, enhancement and preservation of Elgin’s Historic homes and public buildings with a focus in the Elgin Historic District.
The neighborhood is located in the oldest portions of the city of Elgin, Illinois, and is oddly shaped and roughly bound by Park Street on the north, Center Street/Villa Court on the west, Villa Street on the south, and Liberty Street on the east. Click here for a map of the neighborhood boundaries.
GPA has made great strides in preserving Elgin’s Historic past and actively works to continue that effort. Our members are enthusiastic and proud to show off both their own homes and those of others. Hence, Elgin’s Historic House Tour began in 1981. Now in its 38th year, the house tour attendance averages 1,500 people annually. Elgin rallies behind this event every year as all of our GPA members, city officials, and residents gather together to make this one of Elgin’s finest events.
There will not be a General Membership meeting until after the Corona Virus restrictions are lifted. Future meetings will be held on the third Thursday of every month, at 360 Park Street, second floor, at 7:00 pm. General Membership meetings are open to the public. Non-members (and future members) are welcome! Come to learn what's happening in the neighborhood and build some community.
Membership in GPA lets you tap into a large network of owners and renovators, a chance to salvage architectural elements for your own home, and a subscription to the GPA Gazette with articles, news and tips for working on your home – and a chance to meet, converse, volunteer, learn, educate and socialize with other old-house people.
Click here to view a video showing 40 years of projects by the Gifford Park Associaton
Click here to view a video on YouTube of a Jerry Turnquist summer 2014 walking tour of the Holy Hill area of the Elgin Historic District.
Click here to view a video of 25 years of preservation in Elgin.
Click here to view a video on the history of the Elgin Watch Factory depot.
Video on 25 years of preservation in Elgin
David C. Cook, the man his business and his home
GPA wins Image award for the Housewalk
180 S. Channing recently sold and the Saga of Grand View
An Elgin Painted Lady revisited
Recent unveilings in the neighborhood
View Changes in the Historic District
Courier article about the Painted Ladies contest
An amazing honor for Elgin's old houses
There is an Egyptian hiding in Elgin
Historic American Building Survey house in Elgin
History of the Watch Factory Depot
