Wilmington, IL – The City of Wilmington officially approved a new logo and signage project at their city council meeting on April 21st.
Founded in the 1830s along the scenic Kankakee River, Wilmington is known as called “The Island City” – evolving from a water-powered milling town into a vibrant community known as a “Main Street of America” stop along historic Route 66 and the Red Carpet Corridor.
The news was posted in a statement by Mayor Ben Dietz:
“A huge thank you to our stakeholder group comprised of local residents and business owners for your help in shaping this project.
The city is not wasting anytime on putting these new logos to use. Our Stewart Street water tower will be the first to display these new graphics.
In the coming months our entrance signs to Wilmington will also be replaced with a massive upgrade. Friends, tourists, and residents will be welcomed to Wilmington with new monument signs. At night these signs will be extra inviting with the warm glow of neon!
A huge thank you to all of those included with these projects!”
The project will be completed by Ace Sign Co. in Springfield.
On February 25th, Ace Sign Co. announced in a statement the completion of the new Interpretive Exhibit at the Gemini Giant:
“While many signs have a story, some tell stories. Our team just completed the fabrication and installation of this new ‘Interpretive Sign’ in the City of Wilmington IL, educating travelers about the world-famous astronaut on Illinois Route 66. Hit the road and go pay a visit to the Gemini Giant!”
Installed in 1965 to honor the Space Race, the 30-foot Gemini Giant in Wilmington quickly became an iconic Route 66 “Muffler Man” landmark outside The Launching Pad restaurant. Named after NASA’s Gemini program, this astronaut-themed figure attracted worldwide visitors and was inducted into the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2000. Following the restaurant’s closure, the community and supporters rallied to preserve the statue, leading to its restoration and relocation to South Island Park in 2024, ensuring this beloved figure continues welcoming road-trippers for generations to come.
Photo credits: Mayor Dietz & Ace Sign Co.
