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Montauk Historic Site: A Glimpse into Iowa's Past

Step back in time at Montauk Historic Site, the meticulously preserved home of Iowa's 12th Governor, William Larrabee, near Clermont.

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Explore the meticulously preserved 1874 estate of Iowa's 12th Governor, William Larrabee. Montauk offers a unique window into Victorian life with original furnishings, stunning architecture, and scenic grounds overlooking the Turkey River Valley.

A brief summary to Montauk Historic Site

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months for the most complete experience, as the site has limited hours after Labor Day.
  • Take the guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of the house and its contents.
  • Explore the grounds and trails surrounding the mansion for scenic views of the Turkey River Valley.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Montauk Historic Site is located on Harding Road (U.S. Highway 18), just north of Clermont. From Clermont, head north on Highway 18. The entrance is at the top of a hill and can be easily missed. Look for the brown highway signs indicating the turn. The driveway has two gate pillars at the entrance. Parking is available in the gravel lot to the right as you approach the house. There is no fee for parking.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Clermont, you can walk to Montauk Historic Site, though it is approximately 1 mile. Head north on Highway 18 (Harding Road). Be aware that the walk is uphill, and the road may not have sidewalks in all areas. Exercise caution and be mindful of traffic. Once you arrive at the entrance, follow the gravel walkway or driveway to the house. The walkway can be uneven in places.

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Discover more about Montauk Historic Site

Montauk Historic Site, located just north of Clermont, Iowa, offers a captivating journey into the life and times of William Larrabee, Iowa's 12th Governor. Built in 1874, the Italianate mansion stands as a testament to Victorian-era elegance and the enduring legacy of the Larrabee family. Designed by Milwaukee architect E. Townsend Mix, the 14-room house features brick and limestone sourced from local quarries. Anna Larrabee, the governor's wife, named the estate after Montauk Point Light on Long Island, a nod to her seafaring heritage. The estate was a working farm, complete with a caretaker's house, barns, and gardens. The grounds also feature statues of Civil War heroes. Inside Montauk, visitors can explore nine rooms filled with original furnishings, artwork, and personal memorabilia. The house showcases a blend of styles and technologies, reflecting the Larrabee family's progressive embrace of modern conveniences. From the widow's walk offering panoramic views to the meticulously kept gardens, Montauk provides an immersive experience of 19th-century Iowa life. The Larrabee family opened the house to the public in 1967, and in 1976, they donated the estate to the State Historical Society of Iowa. Today, Montauk is a State Preserve and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

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