A Special April Fools’ Day for McHenry County
(NOTE: The reference to “Junior College” preceded the use of “Community College” and is reflective of the historical period of the following information)
April 1st is known as a jokesters’ holiday, but it is not clear why. History of the date begins about 1582 when the calendar in use at the time was changed -- or, so it is conjectured. In McHenry County, April 1, 1967 was not an April Fools’ joke. Considerable thought and effort were spent to reach the goal achieved at the end of the day. The resulting action is visible on Route 14 on the northern edge of the City of Crystal Lake — now called McHenry County College.
More than half-a dozen years passed from the early 1960s vision of a junior college in McHenry County, as considered by three county educators, and when the citizenry realized those dreams. In between, a 1963 referendum failed to gain the needed public support, but another attempt blossomed four years later. Efforts by the 100 plus citizens of the Junior College Association for McHenry County Area were considered on April 1, 1967.
Time for Response from Voters
Following many meetings and presentations to the State Board of Higher Education and State Junior College Board, the date for the 1967 referendum originally was set for Tuesday, March 28. However, that date was later changed to Saturday, April 1, 1967. A legal conflict was reported for the March date.
As required by State Statutes, the County Superintendent of Schools set the election with polls open from 12 noon to 7 p.m. Approval was required in both incorporated and unincorporated areas of the county, not just a simple majority as in most other referenda.A great deal of planning took place to identify polling places that would meet state requirements and still provide convenient locations for the voters. The proposed college district involved seven high school districts. Several other high school districts in the southern area of the county were not included by their choice.
A Well-Informed Electorate
Each of the seven high school districts involved was responsible for raising a proportional share of the $12,000 publicity budget. Tax money could not be expended for this purpose, so the high school superintendents turned to businesses and individuals in their communities to provide funding based on each district’s assessed valuation. In addition, the McHenry County Educational Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, raised funds through $2 memberships. These funds covered document production and advertising.
With 15 daily, bi-weekly and weekly newspapers and various area radio stations, McHenry County residents were well-informed on plans for a junior college. High school art teachers created editorial cartoons favoring the district. A speakers’ bureau offered short, informational sessions to civic and community groups. Neighbors told neighbors about the plans. Simple brochures produced “in house” circulated, as did signs and bumper stickers. Neighborhood coffees and public meetings were held to explain the proposed ten-cent tax rate and how the district would operate once formed.
The campaign not only presented the advantages a college would provide students and the community at large.It also publicized the benefits of local control over a state-directed division of the county into multiple junior college districts. The public was informed that the exact campus location only could be determined by an elected board of trustees. This election could take place only if the proposed junior college district received voter approval.
Read more about the referendum activities in the next Blog. In the meantime, consider these plans for a celebration.
A Reason for Celebration
Sunday April 15, 2007 is set aside for commemorative festivities at
Share Your Thoughts
In the meantime, your memories and thoughts of
Call toll-free 1-866-788-9911 or send an email with contact information to 40years@mchenry.edu and join the celebration!
Iris Bryan