Frances Willard House Museum: A Legacy of Reform
Step back in time at the Frances Willard House Museum, exploring the life and legacy of a 19th-century social reform pioneer in Evanston, Illinois.
Explore the meticulously preserved home of Frances Willard, a pivotal figure in the women's suffrage and temperance movements. This National Historic Landmark in Evanston, Illinois, offers a glimpse into the life and work of a 19th-century social reformer and the headquarters of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU).
A brief summary to Frances Willard House Museum
- 1730 Chicago Ave, Evanston, Illinois, 60201, US
- +1847-328-7500
- Visit website
Local tips
- Tours are available, but require advance planning due to limited tour sizes; contact the Office Manager to book a tour.
- Check the museum's website for the most up-to-date information on tour schedules, special events, and potential closures.
- Consider exploring the museum's gardens for a peaceful moment of reflection on Willard's life and work.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Frances Willard House Museum is accessible via public transportation. From downtown Evanston, you can take the CTA Purple Line to the Noyes stop, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, several Pace bus routes serve the area, including routes 208, 213, 215, 250, and 422. Check the CTA and Pace websites for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride on CTA or Pace is around $2.50.
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Walking
From downtown Evanston, the Frances Willard House Museum is approximately a 20-30 minute walk. Head north on Chicago Avenue. The museum will be on your left at 1730 Chicago Avenue. Enjoy the neighborhood as you walk! No costs involved.
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Driving
If driving, the Frances Willard House Museum is located at 1730 Chicago Avenue in Evanston. From I-94, exit at Dempster Street and head east. Turn left onto Chicago Avenue, and the museum will be on your right. Street parking is available, but metered. Parking meters are in effect from 8 AM to 9 PM, Monday through Saturday, and cost $2.00 per hour. Parking is free on Sundays. Several parking garages are also available in downtown Evanston, about a 5-10 minute drive from the museum; garage parking is free on Sundays and costs $6 for up to 5 hours.
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