Under-Cellar Resale Store

One of the great blessings of St. Mary's Parish (and supported with volunteers from St. Valentine's and St. Joseph's Parishes) is the Under-Cellar Resale Store.  This store is located at the former convent building at St. Mary's, at the corner of 7th and Plum Sts. in Peru.

Interestingly, this building (formerly residence of the Zimmerman family) was originally located at the current location of the Post Office in Peru on 4th St.  The building was moved in 1931 to its current location and converted into a convent for the Sisters of St. Francis from Heading Ave. in Peoria.  The Sisters left St. Mary's in 1974.

In 1975 the Under-Cellar, a thrift shop initiated by the Social Action Committee of St. Mary's Parish Council, opened for business.  This resale store, located in the basement of the convent building and staffed by parish volunteers, sold clothing, furniture, dishes, etc. which had been previously received by donation.  The proceeds from the Under-Cellar resale store were used for general parish expenses.  In 1977 the Under-Cellar store moved the first floor of the convent building.

The Under-Cellar operation continues to function thanks to many volunteers, patrons and donors.  The hours of operation are:

Tues. & Thurs.     12 Noon to 4:00 pm.

Wed. & Sat.         9:00 am. to 1:00 pm.

Donations of clothes, furniture, and household items are always appreciated.  And volunteers are needed to cover hours of operation.  Please call Jane Roby at (815) 228-9244, for more information.