|

View larger pictures by clicking on the thumbnail images.






|
|
 |
 |
Specific legal services offered and expertise of attorneys are two elements
most often cited to distinguish one law firm from another. In our case, there
is a third: our physical surroundings.
Meyer Capel, A Professional Corporation is headquartered in the Burnham
Athenaeum. Once threatened with demolition and ravaged by fire, the classic,
revival-style
building has been painstakingly restored and is today listed on both the
National and Illinois Registers of Historic Places.
Completed in 1896, the Athenaeum was home for more than 80 years to the
Champaign Public Library. After the library moved to larger quarters
in 1978, the building
was converted to use for the law firm.
Restoration work had barely begun when the building was hit by arson
in October 1979. The fire destroyed part of the building's roof and
interior. Fortunately,
however, most of its wood paneled ceilings, decorative wood molding,
columns
and fireplaces were not lost.
Despite the fire, our firm's shareholders decided to continue the project,
restoring those parts of the building not destroyed by fire and renovating
the rest. Those efforts have preserved the beauty and character of
the original structure, while creating an efficient, modern work
space.
Throughout the restoration process, work was carried out following
stringent State of Illinois and Department of Interior requirements
in order to
qualify for rehabilitation grants. Despite the increased expense
and, at times,
frustration for owners and architects alike, the careful renovation
has not been without
reward.
Meyer Capel has preserved a beautiful, historic landmark. At the
same time, we have gained a modern, efficient office building.
The Burnham
Athenaeum
stands today as a proud reminder of a glorious past and as a
showcase for our firm's commitment to Champaign County and its residents.

|
 |