David Davis Mansion, Northern Illinois Travel Guide

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Experience Gilded Age grandeur at the David Davis Mansion in Bloomington, IL: a journey into Victorian opulence and American history.

Step back in time at the David Davis Mansion, also known as Clover Lawn, in Bloomington, Illinois. This meticulously preserved Victorian home, once owned by Supreme Court Justice and U.S. Senator David Davis, offers a glimpse into the opulence and lifestyle of the Gilded Age. Explore the 36-room mansion, stroll through the gardens, and discover the stories of the Davis family and their prominent place in history.

A brief summary to David Davis Mansion

1000 Monroe Dr, Bloomington, Illinois, 61701, US
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Wednesday 9 am-3:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm
Friday 9 am-3:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring David Davis Mansion.

Visit during the weekday for a less crowded and more personalized tour experience.
Check the mansion's website for special events and guided tour schedules.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through various rooms and gardens.

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Getting There

Car

The David Davis Mansion is located at 1000 Monroe Dr, Bloomington, IL 61701. From central Bloomington, take E Washington St and turn onto S Main St. Continue on S Main St until you reach the intersection with Monroe Dr, then turn left. The mansion will be on your right. Parking is available on-site for visitors. Parking is free.
Public Transport

Take the Bloomington-Normal Public Transit System (BNPTS) bus. Look for Route 4, which has a stop near the mansion (Monroe Dr stop). From the Monroe Dr bus stop, head east on Monroe Dr for about 0.2 miles, and you will see the mansion on your left. The bus fare is approximately $1.00 per ride.

Discover more about David Davis Mansion

The David Davis Mansion, also known as Clover Lawn, stands as a testament to the elegance and prosperity of the Gilded Age in Bloomington, Illinois. Built between 1870 and 1872 for David Davis, a Supreme Court Justice and U.S. Senator, and his wife, Sarah, the mansion offers a captivating journey into the past.Designed by French-born architect Alfred H. Piquenard, the three-story yellow brick home showcases a blend of Italianate and Second Empire architectural styles. The 36 rooms are lavishly decorated with Renaissance Revival furniture and hand-painted ceilings, reflecting the refined tastes of the Davis family. Visitors can explore twenty rooms on the second and third floors, gaining insight into the daily life of a prominent 19th-century family.Beyond the mansion walls, the estate encompasses a variety of historical outbuildings, including an 1872 wood house, a barn and stable, a foaling shed, and a carriage barn. "Sarah's Garden", a Victorian cut flower garden, is being restored with heirloom roses and perennials, offering a tranquil escape. The grounds also feature a circular drive, configured as it was originally.The David Davis Mansion remained in the Davis family until 1960 when it was donated to the state of Illinois. It has been a state museum since then, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of the Gilded Age and learn about the life and legacy of David Davis. The mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975.Throughout the year, the David Davis Mansion hosts a variety of special events, including "Mr. Lincoln's Birthday," the "Glorious Garden Festival" in June, an "Antique Car Exhibition," and a Thanksgiving celebration, “The Blessings of the Table,” in November. During the holiday season, the mansion is lavishly decorated for "Christmas at Clover Lawn," offering Christmas “Gaslight Tours”.