Washburne House State Historic Site: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Political Life
Explore the meticulously preserved home of Elihu Washburne, advisor to Lincoln and Grant, in historic Galena, Illinois.
The Washburne House State Historic Site in Galena, Illinois, offers a fascinating look into the life of Elihu B. Washburne, a U.S. Congressman and friend to Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant. This beautifully preserved Greek Revival home showcases the lifestyle of a prominent Midwestern figure in the late 1800s, complete with original possessions and period furnishings.
A brief summary to Washburne House State Historic Site
- 908 3rd St, Galena, Illinois, 61036, US
- +1815-777-3310
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the site's limited seasonal operating hours (Fridays from May through October) before planning your visit.
- Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain this historic site.
- Take the guided tour to learn about Elihu Washburne's life, his relationships with Lincoln and Grant, and Galena's history.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Ulysses S. Grant's home, which is a short walk away.
Getting There
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Walking
From Galena's downtown area, head south on Main Street. Turn right onto 3rd Street and continue until you reach 908 3rd Street. The Washburne House will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1 mile.
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Public Transport
Take a Greyhound bus to Dubuque, Iowa. From Dubuque, take a taxi or rideshare to Galena, approximately 20 miles away. Once in Galena, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to 908 3rd St. Taxi fares vary. Alternatively, from the Galena bus station, walk south along Main St, then turn left onto 3rd St. The Washburne House will be on your left at 908 3rd St.
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Parking
There is a parking lot directly behind the Washburne House with an accessible parking space. Parking is free.
Discover more about Washburne House State Historic Site
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