Fate of Infamous Illinois Politician's Birthplace Museum Uncertain after Trust Fund Dries Up
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Paul Powell was a powerful southern Illinois politician who left behind $800,000 cash in the "Shoebox Scandal" when he died in 1970.
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A $250,000 trust fund established by Powell has paid to maintain his birthplace in Vienna, IL as a museum for decades.
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The historical society overseeing the home can no longer afford the $5,000 annual upkeep, so the home will likely be sold.
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Powell built his political power through expanding prisons, supporting Southern Illinois University, and promoting horse racing while profiting from racetrack stock.
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Powell's estate was worth $4.6 million when he died, including $1 million in racetrack stock, leading to legal claims from the IRS and the state of Illinois.