Robert Waugh House: Sparland's Octagonal Gem

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Discover the unique Robert Waugh House in Sparland, IL: a rare brick octagon home listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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Robert Waugh House

The Robert Waugh House, an intriguing octagonal brick residence built in 1887, stands as a unique historical landmark in Sparland, Illinois. Constructed by Scottish immigrant Robert Waugh, this distinctive home is the only brick octagon house remaining in the state, showcasing a fascinating architectural style from the 19th century.

A brief summary to Robert Waugh House

202 School St, Sparland, Illinois, 61565, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Robert Waugh House.

Note that the Robert Waugh House is a private residence; please respect the owner's privacy.
Take photos from the street to capture the unique octagonal architecture.
Explore the nearby town of Lacon, the Marshall County seat, for local dining and shops.

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Getting There

Walking

The Robert Waugh House is located at 202 School St in Sparland. From most points in the village, it's easily accessible on foot. From Sparland's main intersection near the Village Hall at 123 Center Street, walk north on School Street for about two blocks. The house will be on your left, situated on a slight hillside. There are no sidewalks, so use caution. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

Public transportation options in Sparland are limited. Marshall-Stark Transportation offers general public demand-response service. Contact them at 309-364-2287 to arrange a ride. Since it is a demand-response service, costs will vary based on the distance and specific location. Contact Marshall-Stark Transportation for a fare quote.
Driving

The Robert Waugh House is located at 202 School St, Sparland, IL 61565. From Illinois Route 17, turn north onto School Street. The house will be on your left in approximately 0.2 miles. Parking is available on the street. There are no parking fees in Sparland.

Discover more about Robert Waugh House

Nestled on a hillside overlooking the Illinois River in Sparland, the Robert Waugh House is a captivating example of octagonal architecture. Built in 1887 by Robert Waugh, a Scottish immigrant, the house stands out with its eight facades, each measuring 16 feet, and its unique pie-shaped rooms arranged around a central spiral staircase. Waugh, who arrived in the United States in 1850 and settled in Marshall County in 1853, was a dry goods store owner who purchased the land for just $25.The two-and-a-half-story brick house features a low-pitched roof with three gabled dormers and a hexagonal porch supported by Doric columns. The main facade faces east towards School Street. The Robert Waugh House is the only remaining brick octagon house out of the ten that were standing in Illinois in 1978. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in October 1978, recognizing its architectural significance. The Robert Waugh House offers a glimpse into a unique architectural movement of the 19th century and the life of an immigrant who made his mark in a small Illinois town.Today, the Robert Waugh House remains a private residence, a testament to a bygone era and a unique piece of Illinois history.