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Historic General Dodge House

Explore the meticulously restored Victorian mansion of General Grenville M. Dodge, a Civil War hero and railroad pioneer, in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

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Step back in time at the beautifully preserved 1869 Victorian home of General Grenville M. Dodge, a Civil War veteran and key figure in the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. Explore the meticulously restored rooms filled with period furnishings and learn about Dodge's remarkable life and legacy in Council Bluffs.

A brief summary to Dodge House-Historic General

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1.5 hours for a thorough tour of the house and grounds.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events and holiday hours, especially in December.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
  • Call ahead or check their Facebook page for weather-related closures.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Council Bluffs, head south on S 4th St towards W Broadway St. Continue on S 4th St for about 0.5 miles. When you reach the intersection with W Main St, turn left (east) and continue for another 0.2 miles. You will then reach S 3rd St. Turn right (south) onto S 3rd St. Dodge House-Historic General will be on your left at 605 S 3rd St.

  • Public Transport

    Catch the Metro bus from the nearest bus stop in Council Bluffs. Look for routes heading towards downtown Council Bluffs. After a short ride, disembark at the stop closest to S 3rd St. Walk south on S 3rd St for about 0.1 miles. Dodge House-Historic General will be at 605 S 3rd St on your left. Single fares for local routes are typically around $1.25 - $2.50.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 80/29: Take the Council Bluffs Business District Exit 3. Turn left onto the South Expressway, North Hwy 192. Follow Expressway over the bridge. Turn right on Fifth Ave. Stay on Fifth (there's a jog). Turn right onto Third street. The DH is two blocks further on left, park in parking lot on right or on the street. Parking is available in the lot to the west of the house or on the street. Metered street parking costs around $0.25 per hour, with time limits.

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Discover more about Dodge House-Historic General

The Historic General Dodge House, located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, is a captivating museum that offers a glimpse into the life of General Grenville M. Dodge, a prominent figure in American history. Built in 1869, this Second Empire-style mansion showcases the elegance and grandeur of the Victorian era. Dodge was a Civil War general, a key figure in building the Transcontinental Railroad, a banker, and a politician. The three-story, 14-room home is filled with remarkable antiques and original fixtures, including black walnut woodwork and bronze hinges with silver butts. The house also had modern amenities for the time, such as central heating and hot and cold running water. The home combines elements of grace and vigor, with space for Mrs. Dodge to enjoy her interests of roses, poetry and classical music, as well as space to entertain political and military dignitaries. Five U.S. Presidents have visited the home. The house remained in the Dodge family until 1943. The Historical Society of Pottawattamie County acquired the home in 1963 and began restoration. In the fall of 1961, the home was designated a National Historic Landmark. Today, the Historic General Dodge House is the only registered National Historic Landmark in Council Bluffs.

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