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Elijah Iles House: Springfield's Oldest Home

Explore Springfield's oldest house, a Greek Revival gem built in 1837 by city founder Elijah Iles. A journey into 19th-century history.

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The Elijah Iles House, built around 1837, stands as the oldest house in Springfield, Illinois. This Greek Revival-style home, once owned by city founder Elijah Iles, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life and the early history of Springfield.

A brief summary to Elijah Iles House Foundation

  • 628 S 7th St, Springfield, Old Aristocracy Hill, Illinois, 62703, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit on Wednesday or Saturday between 12 PM and 4 PM for guided tours.
  • Explore the surrounding historic district for more architectural gems and historical landmarks.
  • Don't miss the Farrell and Ann Gay Museum of Springfield History in the basement, featuring a collection of Illinois watches.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, walk south on 8th Street for about 0.3 miles. Turn left onto South 7th Street and walk for another 0.2 miles. The Elijah Iles House Foundation will be on your right at 628 S 7th St.

  • Public Transport

    Take a Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) bus that stops near 7th Street. Check the SMTD website for schedules and routes. Disembark and walk south on 7th Street; the house is at 628 S 7th St. A single ride typically costs $1.

  • Car

    From the center of Springfield, head south on 6th St. Turn left onto South 7th Street. The Elijah Iles House Foundation will be on your left at 628 S 7th St. Street parking is available. Metered parking costs around $1.00 per hour, with free parking on weekends.

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Discover more about Elijah Iles House Foundation

Step back in time at the Elijah Iles House, a beautifully preserved example of early Greek Revival architecture and the oldest surviving home in Springfield. Built circa 1837 for Elijah Iles, a prominent figure in Springfield's founding and early development, the house offers a unique window into the lives of 19th-century residents. Elijah Iles, who moved to Springfield in 1821, was one of the city's earliest settlers. He ran the first store in Sangamon County and played a key role in establishing Springfield as the county seat. The house itself reflects a Greek Revival design, a popular style in the early days of the city. Abraham Lincoln and poet Vachel Lindsay are known to have visited the house. The house features original walnut woodwork, fireplace mantels, and a central hall stair railing. The main floor boasts three of the original four fireplaces. The lower level houses the Farrell and Ann Gay Museum of Springfield History, showcasing a collection of watches and clocks manufactured by the Illinois Watch Company. The Elijah Iles House has been moved twice to make way for the construction of the First Christian Church. The Elijah Iles House Foundation, a non-profit organization, owns the house and has restored it. Today, the house is open to the public for tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

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