Paul Powell's Historic Home Faces Uncertain Future and Sale

FILE - Gary Hacker, of Vienna, shows the sun room in the Paul Powell Home and Museum on Oct. 8, 2020, in Vienna, Ill. The room is now used for storage by the Johnson County Genealogical and Historical

In a small town deep in southern Illinois, the legacy of Paul Powell, a political powerhouse of the mid-1900s, faces an uncertain future. Powell, known for his influence and slogan 'The only thing worse than a defeated politician is a broke one,' left behind a complicated legacy with the discovery of $800,000 cash in a scandalous incident that rocked the state.

His birthplace in Vienna, a town with a population of 1,300 people, has served as a museum for decades, faithfully maintained by the Johnson County Genealogical and Historical Society. Preserving the home as it was during Powell's time in office, the society now faces financial challenges as the trust that sustained the property is close to depletion.

With an annual upkeep cost of $5,000 and limited income, the society may be forced to sell the historical property as a solution. Despite efforts to honor Powell's memory, dwindling interest from the community and financial constraints have made it increasingly difficult to keep the museum running.

Powell's influence extended far beyond his small hometown, as he brought jobs and development to southern Illinois, leaving a lasting impact on the region. His political career saw him rise to power as speaker of the House and later as secretary of state, solidifying his reputation as a man of influence.

Paul Powell: influential Illinois politician in mid-1900s with $800,000 in cash scandal.

Johnson County Genealogical and Historical Society faces financial troubles.

Despite Powell's wishes, his birthplace museum in Vienna may be sold.

Home to Powell memorabilia, upkeep costs $5,000 annually, income $4,300.

Powell's influence in southern Illinois known for prison infrastructure and horse racing.

Known for quid pro quo deals with Mayor Richard J. Daley.

Powell's estate revealed $750,000 cash scandal after his death in 1970.

Powell's estate worth $4.6 million and had stock in horse tracks.

Following Powell's sudden passing in 1970, a scandal involving hidden cash and kickback schemes came to light, tarnishing his legacy. The subsequent federal investigation revealed the extent of Powell's wealth and illicit activities, leading to legal consequences for some of his associates.

As the fate of the Powell home hangs in the balance, the Johnson County community is faced with the possibility of parting ways with a piece of history. With a modest remaining balance in the trust fund and discussions about potential buyers, the future of the property remains uncertain.

While memories of Paul Powell may fade with time, his complicated legacy serves as a reminder of the complexities of power and influence in the realm of politics. The imminent sale of his birthplace marks the end of an era for Vienna and raises questions about how history will remember the enigmatic figure who once held court in southern Illinois.