Dillon Home Museum: A Glimpse into Sterling's Past
Explore Sterling, Illinois' Dillon Home Museum: A preserved Italianate home with original furnishings and local history.
Step back in time at the Dillon Home Museum, a beautifully preserved Italianate-style residence located in the heart of Sterling, Illinois. Built in 1858 for Civil War Brigadier General Edward Needles Kirk, the home later became the property of Washington Dillon and his family, who significantly contributed to the area's industrial development through Northwestern Steel and Wire. The museum showcases the Dillons' remarkable collection of original furnishings, art, and eclectic pieces gathered from around the world. Unlike many historic house museums, the Dillon Home retains all of its original belongings, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the family's life and the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Highlights include the meticulously restored rooms, period decorations that change seasonally, and the stories shared by knowledgeable tour guides. The Dillon Home's grounds are equally impressive, featuring manicured gardens, a fountain, and a two-story enclosed porch. A vintage steam engine and caboose, a tribute to P.W. Dillon's passion for steam locomotives and the region's industrial past, are also on display. The museum hosts various events throughout the year, offering dynamic ways to engage with history.
Local tips
- Check the Sterling Park District website for the most up-to-date tour hours and special events.
- Admission is cash only.
- Consider booking your tour in advance, especially if you are visiting with a group.
- Explore the grounds to see the steam engine and caboose.
A brief summary to Dillon Home Museum
- 1005 E 3rd St, Sterling, Illinois, 61081, US
- +1815-622-6202
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Sterling, the Dillon Home Museum is a pleasant walk eastward along E 3rd Street. Starting near the Whiteside County Courthouse, head east on 3rd Street for about half a mile. The museum will be on your right at 1005 E 3rd St. There are sidewalks along the route.
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Driving
If driving from the west, follow IL-2 or E 4th Street into Sterling. Turn north onto 11th Avenue, then turn right onto E 3rd Street. The Dillon Home Museum will be on your left. From the east, take IL-2 or E 4th Street and turn north on to Locust Street, then turn left onto E 3rd Street. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.
