The club gathered at Bloomington Public Library to connect with Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad, a traveling exhibit presented by Looking for Lincoln in partnership with the McLean County Museum of History. On display through November 30, the exhibit highlights the stories of freedom seekers and the people who helped them along the Underground Railroad in Illinois.
Paula Pratt introduced Bill Kemp, a historian and archivist with the McLean County Museum of History, who spoke about the Underground Railroad in McLean County and the importance of separating historical facts from local legends. Bill explained that many communities have stories about homes, barns, tunnels, and secret passageways serving as Underground Railroad stops, but many of these claims lack historical evidence.
Bill shared the story of Levi Spencer, a Bloomington abolitionist and Congregational minister whose journals from the 1840s document Underground Railroad activity in the area. Spencer was connected to abolitionist communities such as Mount Hope Colony and helped freedom seekers traveling north toward Canada.
He also discussed John Anderson, whose firsthand account is the only known account of a freedom seeker passing through McLean County.
Bill addressed several popular Underground Railroad stories, including claims about coded quilts and underground tunnels.He explained that the idea of quilts carrying secret escape instructions gained popularity after a 1999 book, but there is no historical evidence that quilt codes were an established part of the Underground Railroad. He noted that these stories can still hold meaning as family lore and as a way of remembering the past.
Throughout his presentation, Bill encouraged members to look beyond familiar legends and appreciate the historical evidence that helps tell the real story of the Underground Railroad in McLean County.
Announcements
Veterans Day:
The club took time to honor and thank its members who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Members were recognized for their service and sacrifice, and the club expressed its gratitude for their contributions both in uniform and in the community.
Membership - Paula:
Membership Committee is finalizing the club’s annual membership plan, which is required by Kiwanis International.
Upcoming social at the ISU women’s basketball game on Sunday, December 6, against South Dakota State. Members will have access to reduced-price tickets in a reserved seating block, and spouses and friends are welcome. More information will follow!
Service Leadership Programs - Alyx:
Corpus Christi Builders Club: The club is an active part of the school with all middle school students. One recurring project is a monthly meal service at the Salvation Army!
Tri-Valley High School Key Club: The club is expected to dissolve due to faculty advisor’s retirement and a lack of student interest.
Bloomington High School Key Club: They have at least 10 students meeting every other week, with officers elected, and a new faculty advisor that is a Normal West Key Club alum.
Illinois State University Circle K International: Meets every other week with service projects and hosts several recruitment and social opportunities. They have 13 paid members, 2 away from returning to good standing for the first time in a couple years.
Illinois Wesleyan University Circle K International: Meets every other week, started an Instagram page to engage with students via social media, and added small service projects to each meeting. They have 13 members which is in good standing for the size of IWU.
Member T-Shirts - Andrew:
A replenishment order for club shirts has been placed, with delivery expected in the coming weeks. Members who did not receive a shirt or need a different size should contact a committee member.
An online order may also be offered for Pancake Day shirts, with more details to come.
Distinguished Criteria & Dues:
Our club will need a net gain of four members to earn Distinguished Club status for the Kiwanis year. Members are encouraged to bring guests and check in with those who have been absent.
Most quarterly dues invoices have been paid. Anyone unsure of their payment status should check their spam folder or contact Treasurer Jacob Schlipf.
Kiwanis Cares:
John Kirk, an honorary member, will celebrate 59 years with the club this week, and members discussed arranging a visit with him.
Gil Dorsey is recovering from a foot injury and has been cleared to resume getting out and about.
Gail Dobbins is continuing her rehabilitation following a broken hip, and members recently visited with her.
Pontiac Kiwanis Trivia Night
The Pontiac Kiwanis Club is hosting a trivia night on Friday, November 13, at 6 p.m. The cost is $20 per person, with proceeds benefiting its Service Leadership Programs. Members are encouraged to attend and support a fellow Kiwanis club. Register and reach out to Sonya Weber if you are interested!
SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
Salvation Army Bell Ringing:
Bob Starcovich reminds members that you can sign up for bell-ringing shifts through the Salvation Army volunteer website. Please indicate Bloomington Kiwanis when registering to give credit to our club. Group sign-ups are no longer available, so each member must register individually.
MEETING LOCATION & DAY UPDATE
Beginning in January 2027, regular meetings will move to Second Presbyterian Church in Downtown Bloomington and take place on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
The club will continue its quarterly Kiwanis on the Move meetings at alternative locations.
November 16th and December 2026 meetings will remain at Eastland Suites.
