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Graham-Ginestra House: A Rockford Landmark

Explore Rockford's past at the Graham-Ginestra House, a beautifully preserved landmark showcasing the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

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The Graham-Ginestra House, built in 1857, stands as a testament to Rockford's rich history, showcasing Greek Revival and Italianate architecture. Once home to prominent businessmen Freeman Graham and Leo Ginestra, it offers a glimpse into the lives of early Rockford settlers and their contributions to the city.

A brief summary to Graham-Ginestra House

  • 1115 S Main St, Rockford, Illinois, 61101, US

Local tips

  • Check the Ethnic Heritage Museum's website or call ahead to confirm tour times and any special events happening at the Graham-Ginestra House.
  • Start your visit at the Ethnic Heritage Museum next door to purchase tickets and begin the tour of both locations.
  • Allow ample time to explore both the Graham-Ginestra House and the Ethnic Heritage Museum to fully appreciate the history and exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Rockford, head south on Main Street for about 1 mile. The Graham-Ginestra House will be on your left at 1115 S Main St. Look for the historic building with its distinctive facade.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Rockford, take the Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) Bus #10 heading south. Board the bus at the nearest stop and ride for approximately 20 minutes. Get off at the stop near S Main St and W Jefferson St. Walk south on S Main St for about 5 minutes to find the Graham-Ginestra House at 1115 S Main St on your left. A single ride on RMTD costs $2.00.

  • Parking

    Parking is available in the parking lot at the corner of South Main and Morgan Streets, near the Loomis Street flag entrance. Street parking is also available on Loomis Street. Parking fees vary.

Unlock the Best of Graham-Ginestra House

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Discover more about Graham-Ginestra House

The Graham-Ginestra House, a historic residence in Rockford, Illinois, is more than just a building; it's a portal into the city's vibrant past. Built in 1857, this architectural gem reflects the styles of both Greek Revival and Italianate design, showcasing the craftsmanship and elegance of the era. The house was originally the home of Freeman Graham Sr., a prominent businessman who arrived in Rockford from Connecticut. Graham made his mark on the city through various ventures, including a sour mash whiskey distillery, a cotton mill, and management of a farm implements company. He was also one of the first settlers in Rockford to be elected Alderman. Later, in 1927, the house was purchased by Leo Ginestra, a Sicilian immigrant who operated a mobile home park. The Ginestra family, part of the growing Italian community in Rockford, added their own chapter to the house's story. Therese Ginestra Schmeltzer, Leo's daughter, inherited the home and transformed it into a museum to preserve its history. Today, the Graham-Ginestra House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is part of the Heritage Museum Park. Visitors can explore the house and learn about the lives of the Graham and Ginestra families, as well as the broader history of Rockford. The house sometimes features special exhibits, such as a Victorian funeral display.

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