Put Your Name on the New Martin Plaza

Donate engraved commemorative bricks to become a part of Wheaton’s history

UPDATE: Due to a lack of sufficient funding, this project has been cancelled. The Sesquicentennial Commission is refunding all paver brick donations.

Wheaton’s Sesquicentennial Commission is offering a unique opportunity for residents, businesses and families to become a part of Wheaton’s history. The commission kicked off a renovation campaign of the Robert J. Martin Memorial Plaza that will serve as the commemorative showpiece of Wheaton’s 150th anniversary. To fund the campaign, residents, businesses and organizations can have their names engraved on brick pavers for the new plaza honoring the city’s history.

The plaza, located at the southwest corner of Front Street and Main Street, will be renamed The Martin Sesquicentennial Plaza in honor of Wheaton’s progressive mayor Robert J. Martin (1983-1990).

Features of the new eco-friendly design include a permeable surface for rain water, increased seating and seasonal plantings. A walkway will symbolize the railroad’s impact on Wheaton, and water fountains represent Mayor Martin’s efforts to secure Lake Michigan water for Wheaton. Historical events and Mayor Martin’s contributions will be recounted on historical plaques mounted throughout the plaza.

An estimated 8,900 bricks are earmarked for the project. For more information, contact Jane Hodgkinson, Sesquicentennial Commission, 630-690-8843 or janeh@wdsra.com. An informational brochure (pdf) with images of the design also is available.