Oglesby Mansion – The Historic Richard J. Oglesby Mansion in Decatur, Illinois (original) (raw)
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Events
Check our calendar of events for history programs, holiday events, and more! There’s always something fun happening at the Oglesby Mansion.
Tour the Mansion
The Governor Richard J. Oglesby Mansion, located on the west end of Decatur, Illinois, is open for tours.
Rent the Mansion
Host your event or reception in the Governor Oglesby Mansion! The Mansion is a very special place that can provide an elegant atmosphere for your important occasion.
Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved in the work of the Governor Oglesby Mansion.
The Historic Richard J. Oglesby Mansion in Decatur, Illinois
Richard J. Oglesby is recognized as one of Decatur’s most distinguished citizens. He served his country well as a U.S. Senator, a Union General in the Civil War, a three-term governor of Illinois, and a close friend and colleague of Abraham Lincoln.
The Mansion was built in 1875-76 after his second marriage. The original plans for Oglesby Mansion were by William LeBaron Jenney, a Chicago architect who was best known for designing the first modern skyscraper. The Oglesbys modified the plans a great deal and hired a local contractor to build the house for them. Two of their four children were born while they lived in the house. In 1882 they moved to Lincoln Illinois and then to Elkhart where they built a much larger house on Elkhart Hill.
The house was sold to James E. Bering in 1882 and he and his descendants lived in the house until 1972. At that time, the Mansion was purchased by the Macon County Conservation District with a state grant. Restoration began in 1976 and continues today. The care and restoration of the house is under the direction of the Governor Oglesby Mansion, Inc.
Tour the Oglesby Mansion
The Governor Richard J. Oglesby Mansion is open for tours.
March – November
Last Sunday of the Month
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
June, July, August
Wednesdays & Saturdays
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
A donation for entry is suggested:
$5 per adult
$2 per child
Special tours for individuals and groups can be arranged for a fee.
For more information, please call 217-855-8616.
We are located at:
421 West William St.
Decatur, IL 62522
BECOME A MEMBER
Join Governor Oglesby Mansion, Inc. as it works to restore and maintain the Gov. Richard J. Oglesby Mansion.
Download and Print the Governor Oglesby Mansion, Inc. Membership Card and mail it to us at 421 W. William St., Decatur, IL 62522.