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Dean House: A Window to 1850s Springfield

Step back in time at the Dean House, a preserved 1850s home in Lincoln's Springfield neighborhood.

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The Dean House, part of the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, offers a glimpse into the life of a typical Springfield resident during Abraham Lincoln's time. Once home to Harriet Dean, it now features exhibits and serves as office space for the park service.

A brief summary to Dean House

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday for a less crowded experience.
  • Check the National Park Service website for updated hours and possible closures.
  • Explore the surrounding Lincoln Home National Historic Site to learn more about Lincoln's life in Springfield.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Dean House is located within the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. From the Lincoln Home, walk across 8th Street to the west. The Dean House is a short distance northwest of the Lincoln Home. The walk is less than 5 minutes and is free.

  • Public Transport

    The Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus service to the Lincoln Home area. Check the SMTD website for routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop, walk to the Lincoln Home and then across 8th Street to the Dean House. A day pass costs $3.00.

  • Driving

    From I-55, follow signs to downtown Springfield. Parking is available in downtown parking lots. From the parking lot at 7th St. and Lincoln Home, walk south on 8th Street. The Dean House will be on the left. Parking fees vary.

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Discover more about Dean House

The Dean House, located at 441 S 8th St in Springfield, Illinois, is a preserved 19th-century residence within the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. The house is named after Harriet Dean, who owned the property in 1860, Abraham Lincoln's last full year in Springfield before becoming president. Dean, a divorcee, lived there with her son and was involved in teaching and gardening. Constructed around the 1850s, the Dean House reflects the architectural style of the period. Over the years, the house has undergone several changes, but it still retains some original features, including a bracketed cornice supporting the hipped roof. Lincoln would have passed the house daily on his way to his office. Today, the National Park Service administers the Dean House. The first floor features exhibits, while the second floor houses offices for the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Visitors can explore the house to learn about the history of the neighborhood and the lives of its residents during Lincoln's time.

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