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John C. Flanagan House Museum: A Step Back in Time

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Explore Peoria's oldest standing house, built in 1837, with antique collections and a view of the Illinois River Valley.

The John C. Flanagan House Museum, built in 1837, is the oldest standing house in Peoria, Illinois. This American Federal-style home, with Italianate elements, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life with its collections of antique furniture, china, and clothing.

A brief summary to John C. Flanagan House Museum

  • Sunday 1 pm-4 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring John C. Flanagan House Museum.

  • Check the Peoria Historical Society's website for the most up-to-date tour schedule and special events.
  • Tours are available on the first and third Sundays of each month, but it's best to confirm before visiting.
  • Consider visiting during one of the museum's special events for a unique experience.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Peoria Riverfront Museum, walk east on Water Street, then turn left onto Main Street. Continue onto NE Glen Oak Avenue. The John C. Flanagan House Museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1 mile.

  • Public Transport

    The Greater Peoria Mass Transit District (CityLink) provides bus service throughout Peoria. Check the CityLink website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Several routes have stops near the intersection of Glen Oak Avenue and Fayette Street, a short walk from the museum. A single ride fare is typically $1.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Peoria. A ride from downtown Peoria to the John C. Flanagan House Museum will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and traffic.

Discover more about John C. Flanagan House Museum

The John C. Flanagan House Museum, located on Peoria's East Bluff, is a tangible link to the city's past. Built in 1837 for Judge John C. Flanagan, a Philadelphia native, the house stands as Peoria's oldest surviving residence. The home's construction utilized local materials like walnut timber, brick, and limestone, combined with supplies from Chicago. Locals once referred to the brick mansion overlooking the Illinois River as the "Mansion on the Hill".The house is built in the American Federal style with Italianate elements. Inside, visitors can explore collections of antique glass, china, furniture, toys, quilts, tools, and vintage clothing. The home also serves as the headquarters for the Peoria Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The Peoria Historical Society acquired the property in 1962 and now operates it as a museum.Docents lead guided tours, sharing insights into the home's architecture, the Flanagan family, and Peoria's history. The museum also hosts special events and exhibits throughout the year.

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