Pettengill-Morron House Museum: A Step Back in Time
Explore Peoria's past at the Pettengill-Morron House Museum, a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion showcasing local history and artifacts.
The Pettengill-Morron House Museum, nestled in Peoria's historic Moss-High District, provides a captivating journey into the past. Built in 1868 for Moses Pettengill, a hardware merchant and social reformer, the Second Empire-style home reflects the grandeur of the Victorian era. The house boasts eleven rooms filled with a unique collection of objects from several Peoria families, offering a rich tapestry of local history. In 1900, a Colonial Revival porch and porte-cochere were added, enhancing the home's elegant appearance. Jean McLean Morron, a lifelong Peoria native known for her philanthropy, acquired the property in 1953 and resided there until her death in 1966. Upon her passing, she bequeathed the house and its contents to the Peoria Historical Society. The museum's collection features furniture, artwork, artifacts, and textiles dating from the mid-18th to mid-20th centuries. These items offer insights into the lives of the Pettengill and Morron families, as well as the broader history of Peoria. The house itself is a testament to architectural styles and societal changes over time. The Pettengill-Morron House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and is recognized as a landmark by the Central Illinois Landmark Foundation.
Local tips
- Tours are available every Thursday from 10 AM to 2 PM, offering a guided exploration of the house and its history.
- Consider booking a private tour for a more personalized experience, especially for small groups.
- Check the Peoria Historical Society website or call for special events and open houses.
A brief summary to Pettengill-Morron House Museum
- 1212 W Moss Ave, Peoria, Illinois, 61606, US
- +1309-674-1921
Getting There
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Walking
The Pettengill-Morron House Museum is located in a residential area. If you are nearby in the Moss-High District, walking is a pleasant option. From the intersection of High Street and Moss Avenue, walk west on Moss Avenue for about two blocks. The museum will be on your left. Look for the Second Empire-style house with a Colonial Revival porch.
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Public Transport
CityLink public transportation serves the area. Check the CityLink website or app for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. From downtown Peoria, take a bus that stops near the intersection of Moss Avenue and Sheridan Road. From there, walk west on Moss Avenue for a short distance to reach the museum. A single ride fare is $1.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Peoria. Request a ride to 1212 W Moss Ave, Peoria, IL 61606. The fare from downtown Peoria typically ranges from $8 to $12, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 1212 W Moss Ave, Peoria, IL 61606. From downtown Peoria, take Main Street west, then turn left onto Sheridan Road. Turn right onto Moss Avenue. The museum will be on your right. Parking is available on the street. Check for any parking restrictions.
