William Reddick

William Reddick (October 31, 1812 – March 8, 1885) was an Irish-American businessman, farmer, lawman, politician, landowner and philanthropist. Immigrating to the United States with his family at the age of four, Reddick became one of the most prominent citizens of early Ottawa, Illinois. Having a lifelong interest in education, Reddick supported the foundation of the University of Illinois and assisted in the establishment of a public school system for the youth of Ottawa.

Early life Reddick was born in Ballynahinch, County Down, Ireland This second apprenticeship concluded after a period of 2 years 2 months and 2 days.

In 1832 the couple moved to Washington, D.C., Reddick continuing his trade as a glass blower. He was reelected to the position of sheriff for four consecutive two-year terms. The brick and stone mansion is in the Italianate style.

In April 2019, Heritage Restoration and Design Studio was hired to perform a large scale restoration of the mansion's exterior. Some $1,200,000 has been budgeted to restore the windows, facades, and Italianate cornices.

Support for public education Due to his own lack of formal schooling, Reddick dedicated time and money to ensuring that the citizens of Ottawa had access to education. This meeting laid the foundation for the University of Illinois system.

Later life and death By 1877, through his ownership of real estate and business ventures, Reddick's personal fortune was estimated at $300,000. Eliza Collins Reddick died on July 5, 1883, and Reddick himself died less than two years later on March 8, 1885. In his will, Reddick left the City of Ottawa his mansion for use as a public library and gave $100,000 for its upkeep. He also bequeathed one hundred acres of farm land to LaSalle County for the support of the poor.