Strevell House: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Life and Lincoln's Legacy

The Strevell House, located at 401 W Livingston St in Pontiac, Illinois, is a significant historical landmark with architectural merit and a unique connection to Abraham Lincoln. Built in 1854-1855 by Zelus H. Nettleton, a master carpenter, the house is an excellent example of Carpenter Gothic architecture, characterized by its wood frame, steeply pitched gabled roof, and distinctive trim.Jason Strevell, a lawyer, moved from New York to Pontiac in 1855. He married Nettleton's widow in 1858 and doubled the home's size. In January 1860, Abraham Lincoln, a friend of Strevell, visited Pontiac to deliver a lecture at the Presbyterian Church. Lincoln stayed at the Strevell House, where Strevell measured Lincoln's height at six feet four inches in the doorway. Strevell later served in the Illinois State Legislature and Senate.In 2008, the house was purchased by concerned citizens to prevent demolition, and ownership was transferred to the Livingston County Historical Society in 2009. After a decade-long restoration, the Strevell House is now open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the home's architecture and learn about its history and connection to Abraham Lincoln. The house also hosts exhibits, such as "Nine Days in April: The Lincoln Assassination and the Press". The Strevell House was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 13, 2023.