JANE CHARMELO PHOTO
The Sheldon Peck Homestead, 355 E. Parkside Ave., was the site of a historical marker dedication on Thursday, Aug. 11, recognizing the farmer and renowned artist as a staunch abolitionist and “conductor” on the Underground Railroad. It is documented that Peck helped freedom seekers escape from slavery—at his own personal risk. Pictured shortly after the unveiling are (left to right) Lombard Village President Keith Giagnorio, Peck great-granddaughters Janet Golden and Beverly Viscariello, Peck great-grandson Gene Mertz and Lombard Historical Society Executive Director Alison Costanzo. The house, donated by family members to the Village of Lombard in 1996, was turned over to the historical society, although the village owns the land. For a very brief time in the 1990s, there was talk about moving the house to Lilacia Park.
