Background

Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House: A Glimpse into Crystal Lake's Past

Explore the meticulously preserved Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House in Crystal Lake, a landmark of local history and architectural beauty.

5

The Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House, built in 1858, stands as a testament to Crystal Lake's rich history and architectural heritage. This Greek Revival and Federalist-style home, once owned by Colonel Gustavus A. Palmer, a prominent local figure, now serves as a museum and the home of the Crystal Lake Historical Society. Visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors and learn about the area's early days.

A brief summary to Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House

  • 5516 Terra Cotta Rd, Crystal Lake, Illinois, 60012, US
  • +1815-477-5873

Local tips

  • Check the Crystal Lake Historical Society's website for tour schedules and special events.
  • Visit during the fall for beautiful autumn foliage surrounding the property.
  • Take advantage of the picturesque gardens for photo opportunities.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Crystal Lake, Illinois. From the center of Crystal Lake, head south on IL-31 N (Northwest Hwy). Turn right onto Terra Cotta Rd and continue for about 1 mile. The Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House will be on your left at 5516 Terra Cotta Rd. Ample parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metra Train from Chicago to Crystal Lake Station. From Crystal Lake Station, take a taxi or rideshare service to the Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House at 5516 Terra Cotta Rd, approximately 3 miles away. Taxi fares typically start at $1.00 per mile. Alternatively, check local bus routes for service towards Terra Cotta Rd. A Pace bus from Crystal Lake Metra Station to Elgin Transportation Center is $2-$4.

Unlock the Best of Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House

The Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House offers a captivating journey into Crystal Lake's past. Built in 1858 by Andrew Jackson Simon, a local architect and stonemason, the house is an eclectic blend of Greek Revival and Federalist architectural styles. Colonel Gustavus A. Palmer, a veteran of the Patriot War and a significant landowner, played a vital role in the development of Crystal Lake. Palmer arrived in McHenry County around 1841 and acquired over 300 acres of land, which became known as Palmer's Corners. He was also a founding member of the Nunda Masonic Lodge, and his house served as a temporary lodge after a fire destroyed the original one. The house itself features a cobblestone foundation, plaster walls, southern yellow pine floors, and a hand-carved walnut banister. Today, the Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House is operated by the Crystal Lake Park District and leased from the City of Crystal Lake. It houses the Crystal Lake Historical Society, which maintains records and artifacts related to local history. Visitors can take tours, attend special events, and conduct research. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the only structure in Crystal Lake with this designation.

Popular Experiences near Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House

Popular Hotels near Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House

Select Currency