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Jubilee College State Historic Site: A Glimpse into Illinois's Educational Past

Discover 19th-century education at Jubilee College State Historic Site in Brimfield, IL: tours, exhibits, and scenic grounds await!

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Step back in time at Jubilee College State Historic Site in Brimfield, Illinois. Founded in 1839, this site preserves the remnants of one of Illinois's earliest educational institutions, offering a unique look into 19th-century frontier college life. Explore the restored buildings and scenic grounds, and discover the story of Bishop Philander Chase's vision for education in the Midwest.

A brief summary to Jubilee College State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the site's operating hours before visiting, as they are limited to Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the grounds and exploring the outdoor areas.
  • Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Jubilee College State Historic Site is located at 11817 W Jubilee College Rd, Brimfield, IL 61517. From I-74 Eastbound, take exit 75 for Brimfield, turn left onto US Route 150, then right onto Jubilee College Road. From I-74 Westbound, take exit 82 for Kickapoo-Edwards, turn right, then left onto US Route 150, and finally left onto Jubilee College Road. Free parking is available on site.

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Discover more about Jubilee College State Historic Site

Jubilee College State Historic Site, nestled in the rolling hills of Brimfield, Illinois, offers a captivating journey into the state's early educational history. Founded in 1839 by Episcopal Bishop Philander Chase, the college aimed to provide theological and classical education in the heart of the Illinois frontier. The site preserves the centerpiece of Chase's vision: an L-shaped, two-story sandstone building that once housed the school's chapel, classrooms, and dormitory. Constructed between 1839 and 1844, the building's design was inspired by an Anglican chapel near London, England. Today, visitors can explore the restored building, which features representations of an 1840s Episcopal chapel, a schoolroom, and a dormitory. The west wing houses a recreated schoolmaster's office and library, complete with a video theater and museum exhibits that detail the college's history. Though Jubilee College closed in 1862 following a series of misfortunes after Bishop Chase's death, its legacy remains. The site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and opened for public tours in 1986. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the chapel/schoolroom/dormitory wing and the recreated library and schoolmaster's office. The grounds also feature a picnic pavilion, day-use areas, a 3.5-acre prairie plant lot, an herb garden, and a butterfly garden. Jubilee College State Historic Site provides a unique opportunity to connect with Illinois's past and appreciate the challenges and aspirations of early education in the Midwest.

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