The Bressmer, Corn Belt Travel Guide

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Experience Victorian elegance at The Bressmer, a Lincoln-era landmark in Springfield's historic Old Aristocracy Hill, near top attractions.

The Bressmer, also known as the Bressmer-Baker House, is a beautifully restored Queen Anne Victorian mansion in Springfield's Old Aristocracy Hill neighborhood. Built in 1853, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to The Bressmer

913 S 6th St, Springfield, Old Aristocracy Hill, Illinois, 62703, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Bressmer.

Explore the Old Aristocracy Hill neighborhood, known for its well-preserved 19th-century homes.
Visit nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to delve deeper into the life of Abraham Lincoln.
Check out the Dana-Thomas House, a stunning example of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School architecture.

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Explore The Bressmer on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Bressmer, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Bressmer is located in downtown Springfield, a few blocks from major attractions like the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. From the Lincoln Home, walk south on 8th Street, then turn left on Capitol Avenue. Turn right onto 6th Street. The Bressmer will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

The Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus service throughout Springfield. Check the SMTD website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several routes stop near the Bressmer. From the Transfer Center, take a bus that stops near 6th Street and Capitol Avenue. The Bressmer is a short walk from there. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Springfield. A ride from the Amtrak station or the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to The Bressmer will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

Discover more about The Bressmer

Located in the historic Old Aristocracy Hill neighborhood of Springfield, Illinois, The Bressmer, or Bressmer-Baker House, is a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into the city's past. Built in 1853, this Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion was originally constructed by Hiram Walker and later reimagined by architect Thomas Dennis, who also designed the Illinois Governor's Mansion. John Bressmer, a successful merchant, purchased the home and commissioned the redesign, leaving an indelible mark on Springfield's downtown.The house is distinguished by its irregular plan, varied gables, and the only copper-domed turret in Springfield. The home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, The Bressmer operates as a short-term rental, offering visitors a chance to experience its historic charm firsthand. Its location is just a few blocks from other historical sites such as Abraham Lincoln's Home, the Presidential Library, the Illinois State Capitol, and the Dana-Thomas House.John Bressmer, the man behind the mansion's transformation, was a prominent figure in Springfield's history. Arriving in the United States as an immigrant, he built a successful dry goods business that eventually became a full-fledged department store. Bressmer's department store was known for its quality merchandise and was even the first in Illinois to feature an escalator.