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George Clayson House Museum: A Victorian Gem

Experience 19th-century charm at the George Clayson House Museum in Palatine, Illinois. Explore Victorian architecture and local history.

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Step back in time at the George Clayson House Museum, a beautifully restored 1873 home showcasing 19th-century life in Palatine, Illinois. Explore period furnishings and learn about the Clayson family's impact on the community.

A brief summary to George Clayson House Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's hours before visiting, as they vary throughout the week.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
  • Free parking is available on Oak Street, immediately northwest of the museum.
  • The Clayson House is not fully handicapped accessible; however, a video tour is available in the carriage house for those unable to climb stairs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Palatine Metra Station (137 W. Wood St), take Pace Bus Route 208 heading east. Get off at the stop labeled 'E Palatine Rd & S Plum Grove Rd'. From there, walk east on E Palatine Road for about 5 minutes. The George Clayson House Museum will be on your left at 224 E Palatine Rd. A single ride on Pace Bus is approximately $1.75.

  • Walking

    From the Palatine Metra Station (137 W. Wood St), exit the station and head east on E Wilson Street. Continue straight until you reach S Plum Grove Road. Turn left on S Plum Grove Road and walk north until you reach E Palatine Road. Turn right onto E Palatine Road. The George Clayson House Museum will be on your left at 224 E Palatine Rd. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Driving

    The George Clayson House Museum is located at 224 E Palatine Rd, Palatine, IL 60067. Free parking is available on Oak Street, immediately northwest of the Clayson House Museum. From Northwest Highway (Route 14), head north on N Smith St, turn right onto E Palatine Rd, and the museum will be on your right. From the east or west, take E Palatine Rd to 224 E Palatine Rd.

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Discover more about George Clayson House Museum

The George Clayson House Museum, nestled in the heart of Palatine, Illinois, offers a captivating glimpse into Victorian life. Built in 1873 for George Clayson, a local nurseryman and village board member, the house stands as a testament to Palatine's rich history. Clayson, who moved to Palatine from New York in the 1860s, played an active role in the community. He sold the house in 1881 to expand his nursery business. The house itself is a fine example of Second Empire architecture, featuring a distinctive Mansard roof and Victorian Italianate details. Saved from demolition in the 1970s, the Palatine Public Library purchased the property in 1976. It was then restored as a bicentennial project by the citizens of Palatine Township and the Palatine Historical Society. The house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 21, 1979, and opened to the public on October 7, 1979. The Palatine Park District became the owner of the property in 2024. Inside, visitors can explore meticulously preserved rooms filled with period furnishings and artifacts. The museum offers guided tours that allow guests to immerse themselves in the narratives that shaped the region. The first floor features a parlor, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, and library. The second floor once held five bedrooms. The Palatine Historical Society maintains the collection, offers programs, and welcomes visitors.

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