800-916-3330
Galesburg Historic Home Tour
The Galesburg area is an exceptional blend of history and distinctive architecture. This blend is very evident in the homes lining the avenues and streets of this community. Many of the prominent early leaders built homes that stand to today as a reminder of their commitment to building a city of statue.
Below, you can view a sampling of these great homes and their historical significance. Information and brochures are available for more extensive tours of many more homes and historical architecture in the Galesburg area through the Galesburg Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.
One of the most distinguished men of Galesburg's history, Col. Carr built this home when he returned from Denmark where he was U.S. Minister. A personal friend of several of the nation's presidents; his home was reputed to be the site of a cabinet meeting held by President McKinley.
Edward J. King served in the state legislature before becoming elected to the House of Representatives in 1915, where he served for 9 years. On this home, commonly called the Wedgewood House due to the blue and white trim, note the half rose or wheel window on the north and…
At a cost of $80,000, the Lawrence house was the most expensive home to be built in Galesburg in the 19th century. George Lawrence was a prominent lawyer and his wife Ella, was responsible for the design of the state flag. The house is built of Colona Sandstone with marble…
A local merchant, John Fahnestock, was a partner in fahnestock and Fuller, Booksellers and Stationers. His home is a restrained example of Victorian architecture; the Queen Anne style. Notice the detailed carving of the double doors and semicircular porch above the entrance.
An active resident of Galesburg, John Stewart not only served as mayor for three nonconsecutive terms, but also practiced law, sold real estate and served as pension, claim and bounty agents. The Stewart house is of the Georgian style, often referred to as Federal architecture.
One of three adjacent and distinctive Queen Anne houses, these large homes typically were built with third floor ballrooms and the drive-thru carriage porticos. The corner towers and projecting gables are all typical characteristics of this Victorian era.
The imposing columns at the head of Chambers Street is a wonderful relic of Galesburg's early years. Local legend says that the basement of the house was used as a station on the "underground railroad", hiding runaway slaves on their way north to freedom. Referred to as "The Great House",…
This Victorian home is similar to the Eastlake architectural style made popular by the English architect Charles L. Eastlake. The rectilinear corner tower and "turned" columns on the large open porch are distinctive characteristics.
This house, built by James Short, was probably the first large home built in the city. William Browning, a leading merchant and baker, purchased the house in 1871. The Galesburg Historical Society bought the home in 1976 to prevent its demolition and started renovation work. The Browning Mansion is now…
In This Section...
