In the midst of a devastating Main Street fire in the early morning hours of Monday, July 15, 2013, citizens of Prophetstown, IL, showed unity and gratitude to their firefighters at a large communal meal. Each Monday, volunteers at “Pat’s Table” serve free suppers to anyone from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., at United Methodist Church-Prophetstown, 200 W. Second Street.
The funds to do so come from a memorial on behalf of former school teacher and librarian, the late Patricia Stewart.
Several 19th century buildings had been consumed by fire earlier in the day. Crews from 31 Illinois and Iowa towns assisted with the arduous task. By the afternoon buildings began to be razed, lying in a jumble of bricks, wood, glass, and steel.
Yet even as this occurred, plans were being formulated to research other towns devastated by fire and to rebuild this “Main Street Comminity.” Only a day later, a relief fund for rebuilding is established at Farmers National Bank, 114 W. Third Street, Prophetstown, IL 61270. Kindly make checks payable to “City of Prophetstown” with the followng note on the memo line: Fire Fund.
This meal at Pat’s Table was especially poignant, because the firemen were honored with a standing ovation. Surely, thankfulness for their safety and the Main Street residents who escaped danger was palpable.
Photo by Steve Siefken