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- calendar_today November 6, 2026
Illinois Veterans Home at Quincy: Entering a New Era
In Quincy, Illinois, the state’s oldest and largest veterans’ home has undergone a transformative $300 million renovation, marking a significant milestone in its storied history. The Illinois Veterans Home at Quincy, located 300 miles from Chicago, has begun a new chapter with modern facilities and expanded support services, reaffirming its commitment to the well-being of military veterans.
Historic Roots and Expansive Grounds
Founded in 1886 by then-Governor Richard Oglesby to serve disabled veterans of the Mexican and Civil Wars, the Illinois Veterans Home at Quincy stands on a 210-acre campus in western Illinois. The grounds feature more than 20 buildings, five miles of roads, two bridges, and an on-site lake uniquely shaped like the state itself. The home originally operated as the Soldiers and Sailors Home and has continuously catered to hundreds of veterans who served the United States.
Major Renovation Brings Modern Facilities
In 2025, two state-of-the-art buildings were unveiled as part of the $300 million investment under Governor JB Pritzker’s administration. These new facilities provide independent living options for approximately 100 veterans, with studio and one-bedroom apartment configurations. The renovation also delivered enhanced memory care facilities and accommodations suitable for married veterans, further supporting a diverse veteran community.
Enhanced Amenities and Personalized Care
The Illinois Veterans Home at Quincy now features smaller residential units, each housing about 15 members, promoting a community feeling and tailored care. Veterans have easy access to restorative therapy, an on-site theater, a chapel, and centralized services to meet daily needs. As adjutant Amanda Bunch, who began her career at the facility as a CNA, explained, the improvements allow veterans to benefit from services without leaving the comfort of the home.
Addressing Mental Health and Building Community
Beyond state-of-the-art amenities, the facility places significant emphasis on veterans’ mental health. Activities such as brain games and group gatherings are incorporated into daily routines to support well-being. "We have a restorative so people can go get therapy really close to home," Bunch noted, further highlighting the commitment to holistic care.
Personal Stories: Veterans Find a New Family
Robert Whitton, a Marine Corps veteran and former police officer, currently resides at the Quincy home. Reflecting on his experience, Whitton called it "the Taj Mahal of Quincy, Illinois," and remarked on the sense of belonging and comfort he has found there. For veterans like Whitton, the updated facility offers not just housing but a vibrant, supportive community in the wake of personal loss.
Leadership and Statewide Impact
Quincy is one of five state-owned and operated veterans homes in Illinois. Terry Prince, a 31-year Navy veteran, has served as director of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs since April 2021. He leads a team of 1,300 professionals supporting more than 550,000 veterans and their families across Illinois. Prince emphasizes the growing importance of mental health care, especially for Vietnam veterans, whose needs are now met in greater numbers at Quincy and other state veterans homes.
Looking Ahead
The $300 million renovation at the Illinois Veterans Home at Quincy represents a major investment in veteran care, offering enhanced independent living, memory care, and support services tailored to the unique needs of the veteran community. As veterans from different eras come together, the facility continues its mission to provide not just shelter, but an enduring sense of home and support.
Source: wgntv.com.
