Elijah Iles House

Holiday Events at The Iles House

2011-11-24T13:01:00.007-06:00

CANDLELIGHT TOURS DECEMBER 3 AND 10

On Saturday afternoons, December 3 and 10, traditional Candlelight Tours will be held from 1 until 4 p.m. The House will be lighted with candles and decorated for a 19th century Christmas. Refreshments will be served.

ILES CHRISTMAS TREE AT GOVERNOR’S MANSION

It is “time” to stop by the governor’s mansion to see the trees decorated by organizations from across the state. The Iles House Tree has a very special theme this year – you will love it!! And - in case you missed it - last year’s tree will be displayed in the Iles House Springfield Museum.

AN HISTORIC CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 17

On Saturday December 17, there is a progressive tour of historic houses. An Historic Christmas will feature the Lincoln Home, Iles House, Lindsay House and Edwards Place. The Sound Celebration Choir will perform period holiday pieces at each site with guests Abe and Mary Lincoln. Be at the Iles House by 2 p.m. for this special performance. The Iles House is hosting a craft sale by Lincoln Memorial Garden (a National Register site) and will have cookie decoratingand crafts for children of all ages.

Terry Ransom to Present Underground Railroad Program

2011-09-23T14:57:00.005-05:00

Terry Ransom wraps up the Fall fireside chats at the Iles House on Wednesday, September 28 at 7:00 P.M. with a program on the Underground Railroad in Illinois.

Terry was born in Champaign, Illinois and was raised in Springfield, Illinois. His interest include Scouting, of which he has been a volunteer for over forty years. He is an accomplished leather crafter. He enjoys enjoys hunting, fishing and almost anything that has to do with the out-of-doors. His major interest for the past two decades has been the history of African Americans as it relates to the Underground Railroad in Illinois .

Terry has based his research on the work of W. B. Siebert, whose book, The Underground Railroad – From Slavery to Freedom, which was published in 1898 and continues to be the most authoritative source of information on the subject.

Terry has had the opportunity to participate as a researcher with the National Park Service studying the routes of the Underground Railroad within Illinois . He has presented an overview of his research at a national Underground Railroad advisory committee meeting in Washington , D.C. He has presented programs for the Illinois State Historical Society, various county historical societies schools and many private and civic organizations.

The program will provide an overview of the Underground Railroad in Illinois , to include laws, routes, the three primary entry points and various personalities and safe houses.

The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served after the program.

Fireside Chats Slated for September

2011-08-27T12:58:00.002-05:00

A series of programs at the Elijah Iles House highlighting our city's heritage is slated for Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. on September 14, 21 and 28, 2011.

September 14: Tim Townsend, Historian Lincoln Home National Park, will discuss Jamison Jenkins, Lincoln's African American Neighbor.

September 21: Erika Holst will present the Edwards Place Restoration Plan.

September 28 Terry Ransom will discuss The Underground Railroad.

These programs are free and open to the public.

Iles House Gardens Highlighted in the SJ-R

2011-08-13T16:28:00.004-05:00

The State Journal-Register ran a very nice story about the period gardening at The Elijah Iles House. Our stove-pipe hats are off to docent and master gardener Gary Lazar who has maintained the garden along with other volunteers from the University of Illinois Extension Office. Their attention and expertise has really paid off with eye-catching and inviting results.

Blogger link

2011-07-18T20:53:00.002-05:00

A couple of bloggers named Chuck and Kate recently visited The Iles House and posted a really nice review at their blog, The Wanderers. The post features several good pictures that are really worth the click.

Strawberry Party Time

2011-06-08T17:32:00.003-05:00

Clara Irwin's Strawberry Party will be held on Friday, July 1 from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. As in past years, we will feature frozen strawberry daiquiris, real strawberry short cake, hot dogs and brats, kids' games, story telling, music and other events.

Strawberry parties were a popular excuse for friends and neighbors to gather in frontier-era Springfield. The Iles House revival of this tradition continues to be one of our most popular annual events. It's a great way to kick off a patriotic Independence Day weekend with the whole family.

Dana Hand to Appear at The Iles House

2011-05-14T20:43:00.005-05:00

Deep Creek authors Dana Hand (Will Howarth and Anne Matthews) will discuss history and fiction at a fireside chat at The Elijah Iles House on Wednesday, June 8 at 7:30 PM.

Will Howarth is a longtime volunteer for the Iles House, serving as the original editor of this blog. A Springfield native, Will is an authority on the history and literature of travel, places, and nature. He served as editor-in-chief of The Writings of Henry D. Thoreau, chaired The Center for American Places and, in over forty years at Princeton University, explored nature-culture conflicts in courses ranging from pre-colonial America to postmodern fiction.

As historian and critic, he specializes in trans-Atlantic romanticism, literary nonfiction, and the environmental humanities. As free-lance writer, he has covered assignments for many national periodicals. He first learned of the events at Deep Creek in 1981, while on assignment in Idaho for National Geographic.

Anne Matthews writes about American places facing sudden and often unwanted change. Where the Buffalo Roam, on the depopulating Great Plains, was a Pulitzer finalist in nonfiction. Bright College Years, a New York Times Notable Book, examines the American campus. Wild Nights: Nature Returns to the City describes the wilding of urban spaces and was a Book-of-the-Month Club selection. She served on the Library of America editorial board for the two-volume collection, Reporting World War II. A contributing editor for American Scholar and Preservation, she has lectured and taught at Princeton, Columbia, and New York University.

Deep Creek has been distinguished among the best novels of 2010 by The Washington Post. Download it to your Kindle or order a hard copy for your library.

...the characters, among the most courageous and
original to be found in Western fiction, don’t reveal
their secrets until they’re good and ready.
— Sarah Johnson, editor, Historical Novels Review

Dramatically, even lyrically...the authors elegantly
weave an engaging, thrilling, lively narrative... A
splendid read.
— William Wong, San Francisco Chronicle

Astonishingly effective...a gripping, spooky historical
novel, based on true events, told in a way that closely
resembles real life, full of the unknown and unknowable....
— Carolyn See, Washington Post

The best piece of Old West historical fiction I've seen
since Wallace Stegner's Angle of Repose. It deftly . . .
tells a compelling story of people wrestling with the
dark and tragic side of the frontier.
— Donald Worster, author of Under Western Skies

Iles House Opens for 2011

2011-04-12T20:21:00.005-05:00

The Elijah Iles House is preparing for its 2011 season with several events slated for April.

Join us for the 2011 Grand Seasonal Opening of the Iles House on Saturday, April 16 from noon until 4:00 P.M. The event is free and open to the public. Complimentary cake and refreshments will be served.

A major fundraiser for the house and "a feast fit for a king" will be held on Saturday, April 30 at 5:00 P.M. The Royal Spring Awakening will be hosted by The Elijah Iles House Foundation, featuring a silent auction, a traditional Maypole Dance by the Springfield Ballet Company, music by Thistle and Thyme and catering by Carol Jean's Fine Cuisine. Reservations are $50.00 per person. Email Laurel29@me.com for more information.

Every year from April 15 through May 5, the Iles House observes days of mourning for our fallen President Abraham Lincoln, a friend and frequent visitor of the house in his day. The house will be draped in black and purple crepe bunting, commemorating Springfield's response to the nation's tragedy in 1865.

Iles House Wins DSI Award

2011-01-27T21:47:00.002-06:00

Downtown Springfield Incorporated named the Elijah Iles House as the winner of their Outstanding Volunteer Effort award for the recovery from the May 26, 2010 flood. The award was one of a series presented by DSI at their annual banquet on January 26th at the Hilton Springfield.

DSI is a not-for-profit organization working to promote Springfield's historic central business district.

Although the historic sections of the Iles House remained well above water, the 2010 flood damaged the lower level, destroying cabinetry and drywall throughout. An amazing and heartening volunteer effort had the lower level, which includes museum space, the kitchen and restrooms, fully restored in time for the popular annual Strawberry Party on July 2nd.

Iles House Volunteers Decorate Executive Mansion Tree

2010-12-02T20:45:00.006-06:00

For the first time, the Iles House volunteers participated in decorating one of 18 Christmas trees on display in the Governor's Mansion through Christmas and the rest of the holiday season. A Small committee, Sue Massie, Logan McMinn, and especially Betty Ann Poage, Ron Orme, and his wife Coleen arrived at a concept for the tree, developed a design for the overall look of the tree, painstakingly cut out 207 ornamental stars, and finally trim the 8-1/2-foot tree set up for us in a magnificently appointed room. Special thanks go to Jessica Orme, Alisha Hamilton, and Matt Cottrill, who helped with the stars.

The tree's theme was set early on. Ron was eloquent in his appeal to have the tree honor Ilinois' veterans in some way. The question was how to turn the sentiment into physical objects suitable for putting on a Christmas three. It was suggested that we could at least honor illinois vets as far back as the Civil War by tying it to the Medal of Honor. We found a web site, Homeofheroes.com, which listed All Illinois-credited recipients of the Medal in a single database.

There are 207 hand-cut stars hanging on the tree. On one side of each star is imprinted the name, branch of military service, and the Illinois town associated with the recipient. On the other side is his rank, his unit, and the place and date of the action that won him the honor. In addition, the tree is festooned with various wide strips of ribbon imprinted with American flags, and studded with small reproductions of the flags of the various military services.

At the bottom, a child's set of military toys from each branch of the service, and atop all, a very patriotic angel. It was a very labor-intensive project, but a labor of Love, as these photos of their results show.

Linda Garvert

Mad Hatter Christmas Tea

2010-11-11T19:34:00.003-06:00

Ladies of the Iles House present The Elijah Iles House Mad Hatter Christmas Tea to be held on Sunday, December 12 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.

This is not your ordinary Christmas tea. Holiday delicacies will be served in the formal parlors of the Iles House. The program will be HATS GALORE's Marle: Hats from 1835 to 1870.

$25.00 per person, $100.00 table for four, $150.00 table for six supporting the Elijah Iles House Foundation Fund. Invite your friends for the perfect Christmas gift. Make your reservation by calling Sue Massie at 217-652-7302.

Wear your favorite hat and join the fun. Surprises are in store.

Old Settlers Day 2010

2010-10-07T17:52:00.003-05:00

The Elijah Iles House Foundation proudly announces the celebration of Old Settlers Day on Saturday, October 23 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Strawbridge-Shepherd House.

Tours, demonstrations, exhibitions, food and entertainment are just part of the fun. Stroll through a restored tall-grass prairie, listen to an authentic civil war era band, take in a program about the underground railroad or the Donner Party. Old Settler Day is always the most popular Iles House Foundation event of the year.

The Strawbridge-Shepherd farmstead is located on Shepherd Road just south of the UIS campus. Ample free parking is available.

Fireside Chats at The Elijah Iles House

2010-08-04T18:43:00.004-05:00

A series of programs at the Elijah Iles House highlighting our city's heritage is slated for Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. on September 22, 29 and October 6, 2010.

Admission is by reservation. Contact Sue Massie at 652-7302.

The Underground Railroad in Lincoln's Springfield will be presented by Richard E. Hart on September 22. Hart will tell the stories --the names and biographies-- of the white and African American conductors on the Underground Railroad in Lincoln's Springfield. He will also tell several stories of real situations involving slave catchers, newspaper accounts of runaway slaves and the Lincoln neighbors who were involved as conductors on the Springfield Underground Railroad.

The Donner Family History will be presented by Don Springer on September 29. Don will tell the story of the Donner family's epic westward venture, its highlights and pitfalls. A Donner descendent himself, Don has several family items and heirlooms to show.

The Illinois Watch Company will be presented by Farrell Gay on October 6. Farrell will recount the beginnings of Springfield's own Illinois Watch Company. He will talk about the evolution of time pieces and watches and show examples from his personal collection. He'd enjoy seeing other Illinois watches people might care to bring along.

Follow The Elijah Iles House on Facebook

2010-07-11T08:57:00.007-05:00

Do you Facebook? Join our group and stay up-to-date on news and events at The Iles House.

Facebook is a social networking site with over 400 million users worldwide. The Iles House, in addition to being a residence, was a social networking site used by hundreds of prominent Springfieldians in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Today, the house connects community members and visitors to Springfield's heritage and to each other. See who else has joined and stay connected.

Museum Reopening

2010-07-03T18:19:00.006-05:00

The Ann and Farrell Gay Museum of Springfield History located in the lower level of the Elijah Iles House was officially re-opened on Friday, July 2 during Clara Irwin's 2010 Strawberry and Lawn Party. The ribbon was cut by Mary Schnirring and Bill Schnirring, long time supporters of the Iles House and the museum, before a throng of visitors on the patio of the home.

The Strawberry Party was a rousing success, exceeding all expectations after the flooding on May 26th destroyed drywall and cabinetry throughout the lower level. The museum, kitchen and restrooms in the lower level now are fully restored.

Many thanks to everybody who helped get the Iles House and the museum back in operation so quickly, to the many volunteers who helped make the Strawberry Party such a success and to the community who rallied to the cause with their support.

Strawberry & Lawn Party

2010-06-09T17:50:00.000-05:00

History Comes Alive

2010-06-04T11:13:00.000-05:00

From June 15th to August 15th: It’s happening before your very eyes, it’s everywhere, it’s 7 days a week … and best of all it’s FREE! This summer, History TRULY Comes Alive in Downtown Springfield!

For the first time ever, the entire historic downtown and surrounding historical sites will be brimming with live performances and fun activities that will completely transport you back in time to the Springfield Abraham Lincoln knew and loved. Featuring storytelling and interaction with costumed interpreters, period musical performances, and even appearances by Mr. Lincoln himself, this is one trip to the past you won’t want to miss!

Listen, for instance, as Abe gives his heartfelt first Inaugural Address on the steps of the Old State Capitol. Or put yourself and your kids at the hub of Civil War action at the authentic Medical Encampment Reenactment. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself lunching next to a couple of nineteenth century ladies at their favorite bistro in the afternoon. Then, catch a fly ball at a vintage-style base ball game. And to top off the perfect day, let a refreshing scoop of ice cream melt on your tongue as the sun sets over Downtown Springfield.

To start planning your visit now, download the “History Comes Alive” brochure and full schedule of events. You’ll be astounded at the sheer number and variety of events—something new is happening everyday and every week, so plan your visit for several days to get the full experience! Feel free to give us a call at 800-545-7300 for more information.

A River Runs Through It

2010-05-29T14:37:00.002-05:00

The historic sections of The Elijah Iles House were untouched by the May 26th flood thanks to the raised cottage design. The modern lower level did not fare as well, though. New kitchen cabinets will be needed as well as new drywall and insulation for the lower 18 inches. The flooring also probably will have to be replaced.

The Great Flood

2010-05-27T18:31:00.000-05:00

7th & Cook, May 26, 2010

Springfield received 4.5 inches of rain in 4 hours.

The Iles House lower level flooded up to 2 feet.

That's where we hold social and museum events.

Board members and friends are now at work,

Removing cabinets, dry wall, and insulation.

We hope to be open to the public soon.

Strawberry Party at the Iles House

2010-05-15T09:12:00.002-05:00

Clara Irwin invites you to the Annual Strawberry and Lawn Party at the Elijah Iles House on Friday, July 2 from 6:30 to 9:00.

Kick off the Independence Day weekend in true patriotic fashion while you enjoy fresh strawberry desserts and other food and fun. Relax in the garden, tour the house and enjoy the company of friendly neighbors. The annual Strawberry Party is always the most popular and well attended event of the year at the Iles House.

Watch for news on a special program this year.

Mourning Days

2010-04-17T15:05:00.004-05:00

The 145th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s death on April 15, 1865 is being commemorated at Springfield’s Elijah Iles House, which will be draped in period mourning decorations from his death date on April 15 to the anniversary of his final funeral service on May 4.

“Mourning Days at the Elijah Iles House” is sponsored by The Elijah Iles House Foundation, which has established a tradition of draping the Iles House for the Lincoln death and funeral anniversary dates. As was the custom at the time of Lincoln’s death, the front porch of the house is draped in black and purple bunting.

President Abraham Lincoln’s 1865 funeral procession in Springfield passed the Lincoln Home, proceeded along Cook Street from Eighth to Fourth streets, and passed on the north side of the Iles House, then the Robert Irwin residence, when it was located at its original site. Elijah Iles served as one of the pall bearers, and the 69-year-old Iles walked the route to Oak Ridge Cemetery with the other mourners on what was a very warm May day.

From the History of Sangamon County, Illinois, published in 1881 -

“Amid all the rejoicing over the evacuation of Richmond, the capture of Lee, and the other Union victories, the startling intelligence was flashed across the continent that President Lincoln was assassinated. . . The news was received in Springfield at a very early hour on the morning of the 15th of April, and spread rapidly across the city. Citizens began to gather upon the streets, listening to the dispatches, or discussing the horrible details. . . . Before 8 o’clock the news had spread generally through the city. The business houses which had been opened were, by common consent, closed almost immediately . . .

“Soon after the death of President Lincoln became known, the principal business houses were draped in mourning. Flags were draped and placed at half mast, and various other emblems of the general sorrow were displayed. Among the buildings draped were the State House, and offices of the different State officers; the headquarters of General Cook, commanding the district, of General Oakes, Assistant Provost Marshall of the District; the hall of the Fenian Brotherhood and Union League; the Postoffice, the chambers of the City Council, all the business houses on the public square and the principal streets, the principal hotels, churches, the houses of the different fire companies, newspaper offices and the Soldiers’ Home. In many cases black was gracefully intertwined with white or the National colors. Much the larger portion of private houses were similarly draped, or bore some emblem of mourning. The bells of the different churches and engine houses were tolled during the morning. At the State Arsenal the cannon were tastefully draped with the American flag, and over the entrance the stars and stripes were artistically arranged and draped in mourning, whilst from the flagstaff floated a dark colored pennant at half mast. The whole city presented a funeral aspect, as if the Death Angel had taken a member from every family. . . .

“A meeting of the City Council was held in the morning, and in response to a call issued in the course of the forenoon, a very large and solemn meeting of citizens assembled at the State House to take into consideration the terrible calamity that had befallen the city and Nation. At 12 o’clock, m., the meeting was called to order by Hon. S.M. Cullom, who said:

“’ Fellow Citizens: -- We are met together to mourn over a great calamity. Abraham Lincoln, your fellow citizen, who went out from this city four years ago, called by the American people to preside over the Nation, is no more. He has been stricken down by the hands of a dastardly, bloody assassin. In view of the long acquaintance, and the sympathy existing between that great and good man and our fellow citizen, J. K. Dubois, I nominate him to preside over our meeting.’

“The nomination was unanimously confirmed by the meeting, and upon assuming the chair, Mr. Dubois spoke briefly and pertinently, alluding to the long and friendly intercourse between himself and the lamented dead.

“The following named were chosen Vice Presidents of the meeting: Stephen T. Logan, John Williams, William F. Elkin, Elijah Iles, N. H. Ridgely, E. B. Hawley, Thomas Condell, James L. Lamb, Gershom Jayne, Richard Latham, A. G. Herndon, Rev. Albert Hale, and Rev. J. G. Bergen. For Secretaries, were chosen James C. Conkling, E. L. Baker, and E. L. Merritt."

Sugar Creek Tour

2010-04-14T22:50:00.001-05:00

Click to Enlarge

Dinner and Auction

2010-03-10T09:31:00.003-06:00

Mrs. Elijah Iles

Cordially Invites You To A Soiree

Celebrating Spring and the 214th Birthday

Of Elijah Iles

Saturday, March 27, 2010

6:00 p. m.

At Her Residence

Seventh and Cook Streets

Dinner and Silent Auction

$100.00 per person

Reservations close on March 22

Mail checks to: Elijah Iles Foundation

P. O. Box 144

Springfield, Illinois 62705

Note on Silent Auction

Donors may take items to

Paris Cleaners, 1013 East Ash

during store hours:

7:00 a. m. until 4:30 p. m.

Saturdays, until 12 noon.

You will be given a receipt and the items

will be stored in the Paris vault until the event.

Bette Franke, Chair

Contact:

R. S. V. P. (217) 523-4006

bettefranke@comcast.net

Linda Cunningham

2010-02-06T23:34:00.001-06:00

Linda D. Cunningham, 60, of Springfield died at 2:58 p.m. on Thursday, February 4, 2010, at Regency Nursing Care Residence.

She was born January 1, 1950, in Tuscola, Illinois, to Floyd G. and Josephine A. Crafton Henson. She married James Patrick Cunningham on May 19, 1990; and he survives her.

She is also survived by her son, Tyson W. Fair and 2 grandchildren, Kylie and Cole Fair, all of Springfield; 2 sisters, JoEllyn (A.G.) Spencer of Springfield and Phyllis Henson of Charleston; 2 brothers, Bill (Pam) Henson and Monte (Racel) Henson, both of Charleston; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and 4 brothers Ray, Floyd, Bud and James Allen Henson.

Linda began working for the State Journal-Register in 1985 and retired in 2008 as classified advertising manager. She was a docent for the Elijah Iles House and volunteer for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Monday, February 8, 2010, at Staab Funeral Home. Funeral service at 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 9, 2010, at Staab Funeral Home, with Reverend John E. Nelson officiating.

Old Settlers Day, Oct 24

2009-10-13T22:00:00.000-05:00

Click to Enlarge

House Garden

2009-09-14T21:45:00.001-05:00

As fall approaches, it's time to salute the

Iles House Garden, maintained by

Gary Lazar, the Master Gardener

who has tended it in recent years.

The garden wraps around the rear of the House,

forming a graceful arc of grasses and flowers.

The boardwalk provides a view from many angles.

No better spot to walk or rest

Before winter comes around again.

Pictures by Dick Hart

Illinois Success Story

2009-08-28T11:40:00.002-05:00

Photo by Marek Jochec

Great story in the New York Times about a family farm in Fairbury, IL.

Instead of raising large row-crops for agri-business harvest,

They are growing speciality produce for city restaurants.

Result is less abuse of land, better profits, more control of income.

Would love to see more of this in central Illinois!

Summer Time

2009-06-26T16:16:00.001-05:00

Summer activities at Iles House include electing one board and painting others (on the porch, that is). Here are the board members for 2009-10, left to right:

Carolyn Oxtoby, Dave Barringer, Dave Stevens, Sue Campton, Treasurer, Curtis Mann, Secretary, Dave Steckel, Ed Mahoney, Al Eck, Sue Massie, Vice President, Kevin Lust, President, Dick Hart, Logan McMinn (Not pictured: Will Howarth, Linda Denk, Bob Sherman.)

On June 14, 2009, volunteers painted the front porch of the Iles House. Left to right: George Souther, Ron Orme, Logan McMinn, Tim Souther and Lary Stevens. In front, Sharon Stevens Robinson and two young ladies, Abby Stevens and Lilly Robinson.

If you'd like to volunteer to help at Iles House, call the number listed above.

Pictures and story by Dick Hart.

Abe Lincoln Observer

2009-06-04T09:37:00.000-05:00

A new blog, the Abraham Lincoln Observer,

is now online. Written by Mike Kienzler,

metro editor of the State Journal-Register,

it features a "Springfield-centric" view

of our 16th president in today's popular culture.

Homeschool Network visit

2009-05-27T10:46:00.000-05:00

On May 19, the Iles House hosted the St. Louis Homeschool Network. 53 students and some parents visited the House as a part of an outing to Springfield.

Students sign the guest register in the center hall.

Linda Garvert gives a tour of the southwest front room, often frequented by Abraham Lincoln.

David Stevens gives a tour of the northwest front room, showing an early Springfield glass bottle from the Barringer Collection.

Farrell Gay gives a tour of his Illinois Watch collection in the Museum of Springfield History.

Later the students went to for Washington Park for a picnic and tour of the Carrilon, then on to a tour of the Illinois State Museum. Susan Baenwald of St. Louis arranged the visit.

Pictures and story: Dick Hart

Spring at SS House

2009-04-30T22:54:00.001-05:00

A spring committee meeting at Strawbridge-Shepherd House. Above, the executive committee members are seated on the south lawn. From left to right: Carol Dyson, R-Lou Barker, David Barrows, Sue Massie and Carolyn Oxtoby.

Professor William Siles of the UIS History department is an authority on 19th-century material culture. He was conducting his last class of the semester at the House.

Here, Prof. Siles and his class meet beside the summer kitchen, with a spring prairie view in the background.

We are making great progress on restoration of the House. Volunteers are always welcome. Call or write the Iles House Foundation at the addresses posted above.

Pictures and captions by Dick Hart

Days of Mourning

2009-04-15T19:40:00.003-05:00

Once again the Iles House will be draped in mourning

to honor the death of Abraham Lincoln.

He died 144 years ago this week.

The House will wear drapes from April 14 to May 5.

Iles House is open for tours Wed & Sat, 12 to 4 pm.
Update: see the Lincoln Memorial Diary at the NY Times.

Photo by Richard Hart

This Place Matters

2009-04-12T17:21:00.000-05:00

The National Trust for Historic Preservation invites you to tell about a place that matters through its This Places Matters campaign.

The campaign helps people call attention to special places in their community before they are endangered -- the small, famous and infamous, and even some relatively obscure, that collectively represent the nation's cultural consciousness.

Simply visit www.PreservationNation.org/thisplacematters to download a This Place Matters sign, take a picture or make a video at the place that matters to you and post it to our slide show. Don't have a picture? Plant your flag on our This Place Matters Google map.

So celebrate a place you love, sound an alarm about a place that is threatened or just start a conversation about places that matter.

Hard Times

2009-03-09T09:28:00.001-05:00

A story today in the New York Times

reports that the Museum of Funeral Customs,

located near the entrance to Oak Ridge Cemetery,

is having financial trouble and may close.

In Love with Lincoln?

2009-02-27T08:42:00.000-06:00

The artist Maira Kalman has published in the New York Times a portfolio of drawings and texts designed to explain, in a whimsical fashion, her fascination with the life and character of Abraham Lincoln.

Some of the panels include a visit to Springfield and seeing Lincoln's tomb, meeting a Lincoln presenter, and eating at a Lincoln diner. Kalman has written and illustrated many children's books, and this project is part of her continuing series with the Times, "And the Pursuit of Happiness."

Presidents Day

2009-02-16T09:57:00.000-06:00

On this Presidents Day, we recommend two pieces of reading: Lincoln Transcontinental: how writers from Germany, Japan, Liberia, and Hungary regard the influence of the 16th President; and The Shaping of America, on the evolving economic landscape of the USA.

The first, from the New York Times, is a thoughtful rendering of Abraham Lincoln from foreign perspectives. The second, from Atlantic, is an article and interactive map on the current economic crisis, how long it will last, and what regions in the USA will be most affected. Main idea: look to places that generate patents.

Lincoln Birthday Tours

2009-02-10T22:43:00.027-06:00

The Elijah Iles House will be open on February 13-14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for tours and to share stories about Abraham Lincoln’s connections to the house, its owners and several household items of interest.

A founder of Springfield, Elijah Iles hired Lincoln as a surveyor and lawyer, but Iles is best known as Lincoln’s captain in the Black Hawk War.

Robert Irwin, a merchant-banker and second owner of the Iles House, was a personal friend of Abraham Lincoln. At his home Irwin entertained Lincoln, along with other notables of the day. When he left Springfield for the presidency, Lincoln entrusted his finances to Irwin.

Iles House Closed for Snowbird Season

2009-01-10T13:07:00.004-06:00

Just like many of today's Springfieldians, Elijah Iles was a "snowbird" who wintered in Florida. For the remainder of the winter months, The Elijah Iles House will be available for events and tours by appointment only. Normal hours for public tours will resume in March. We look forward to seeing you in the Spring.

Holiday Trimmings

2008-11-30T18:52:00.004-06:00

On November 29, we had a great day at the Iles House

decorating for the winter holidays.

Trimming the porch with greens: Linda Cunningham and Farrell Gay.

Making trim for the House: Dean Clough, Linda Denk, Linda Garvert,

Betty Ann Poage, Jackie Stites, Elaine Kerhliker and Martha Clough.

Linda Cunningham, Jackie Stites and Linda Garvert

welcome a special visitor to the House: an oil portrait of Elijah Iles,

on loan from the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.

A close-up of the portrait.

Thanks to Dave Barrigner locating it in storage and to

Linda Garvert who pursued the paper work for a loan.

Pictures and captions: Dick Hart

Robert Irwin's 200th

2008-11-16T19:17:00.002-06:00

Saturday, Nov 8, 2008 marked the 200th birthday of Robert Irwin, a former owner of Iles House. For a profile of Mr. Irwin, see the entry for April 6, 2008. Here Dick Hart, Linda Garvert, and Kathy Kincaid unveil the Irwin portrait, donated to Iles House by J. P. Morgan Chase, formerly Springfield Marine Bank.

A game of eucher, played by George Souther, Logan McMinn, Skip Turnbull, and Larry Stevens. Standing is Bob Sherman, portraying William Corneau, a neighbor of Irwin. He often played cards with friends and neighbors, including Nicholas Ridgley, Stephen Douglas, Abraham Lincoln, and Dr. Merriman.

In the back parlor, docent Margie Adkins in a grand period dress is busy at tatting, or lace-making.

On the lower level, Linda Denk and Jackie Sites view an exhibit on the life of Robert Irwin, prepared by Linda Garvert, chair of the birthday event. Also available: hot apple cider and various baked apple goodies, to welcome Robert Irwin back to his home and wish him a happy 200th birthday.

Halloween by Candlelight

2008-10-30T12:22:00.001-05:00

Halloween by Candlelight will be held from 6 to 8 pm on Oct 31 at the Elijah Iles House. From its 171-year-old parlor master storyteller Cathy Mosley will tell tales to capture the imagination and pleasure of visitors of all ages. In the old darkened basement, kids of all ages can decorate monster cookies. Nearby, plates of Halloween supper-fare (barbecue, chips and drink) will be served. Admission is free.

Old Settlers Day

2008-10-11T08:20:00.002-05:00

The second annual Old Settlers Day will be Sunday, October 19 from noon to 4 pm at the Strawbridge-Shepherd House, on Shepherd Road between UIS and LLCC. (Click on the picture to enlarge.)

The public may tour the house, and various experts will explain its renovation. Entertainment, historical exhibits and demonstrations will be available. Mrs. Shepherd's Pantry, hosted by UIS alumni, students, and faculty, will provide delicious home-baked, kettle-cooked foods.

Old Settlers Day revives a custom from the early years of Sangamon County, set to honor the Sugar Creek settlers who survived the bitter winter of 1832. Once restored, the Strawbridge-Shepherd House will serve UIS as the Sugar Creek Institute, offering a program of studies in prairie ecology, cultural history, and architecture.

The Iles House Foundation is directing restoration and welcomes volunteers and donations to complete this major preservation project.

SSH Meeting

2008-07-20T11:36:00.003-05:00

Members of the Strawbridge-Shepherd House Committee recently met on the House site at the UIS campus to discuss plans for renovation, which continues in 2008, thanks to generous donations from supporters.

In the picture above, committee members examine drawings of the SSH as it existed in 1972. An important discovery: the house then had a north porch, which will now be restored. The early plans will facilitate improvements in room plans, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.

The objective is to renovate the house in a manner that's historically appropriate and versatile for UIS and student use. Assisting the committee is Dave Barrows (left), an architect and facilities director for UIS.

In attendance for the meeting and picnic supper (below) are committee members RLou Barker, Bill Siles, Carolyn Oxtoby, Sue Massie, Tom Bundy, and Dick Hart. If you wish to donate funds to support the renovation, please call the Iles House (see above).

Pictures by Dick Hart

Urban Frontier Exhibit

2008-06-14T12:40:00.003-05:00

The second exhibition in the Farrell and Ann Gay Museum of Springfield History, lower level of the Iles House, is "Springfield as Urban Frontier, 1818-1836." About 75 persons attended the opening on May 29, 2008 and heard remarks by Farrell Gay, Linda Garvert, and Curtis Mann.

The exhibit displays photographs, documents, maps, tools, and household items. One outstanding item is a map of early Springfield, based on John Stuart’s description of the town upon his horseback arrival in 1828. The map was researched by Linda Garvert and painted by Sophia Lang.

The display presents Springfield life between 1818 and 1836, the pre-Lincoln period. Springfield began as an isolated log-cabin village, at the northern edge of Illinois settlement and the western edge of the American frontier. A town began to emerge with a post office, frame and brick residences, professionals, merchants and tradesmen. Roads brought trade goods and settlers, and by 1836, Springfield had access to many East Coast refinements.

Research: Curtis Mann and Linda Garvert of the Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, the Illinois State Museum, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, the Illinois Regional Archives Depository, Floyd Mansberger of Fever River Research, and artist Sonia Lang.

Design: Edward Russo and Corrine Frisch of Sangamon Researchers.

Grant: Farrell and Ann Gay.

The Urban Frontier exhibit will run until October 1, 2008. The public may view it on Wednesdays and Saturdays, 12-4 pm.

Pictures by Dick Hart

SSH on the Move

2008-05-28T06:27:00.004-05:00

Alumni of UIS are taking an interest in the Strawbridge-Shepherd House.
At this May gathering, Tom Bundy displays a model of the roof installation.
Mary Caroline Mitchell, UIS Alumni Association, arranged the program.
We welcome donations from alumni and friends to further our work.

Two members of the SS House committee at work in the northeast room.
Caroline Oxtoby (l) and Sue Massie (r) welcome all volunteers.
Call the Iles House (see above) if you want to help.

Pictures by Dick Hart

Spring at SSH

2008-05-20T15:17:00.004-05:00

Strawbridge-Shepherd House (SSH) is a busy place this spring. In May the UIS Alumni Association will hold two educational seminars on the grounds. SSH volunteers will discuss the history, ongoing restoration, and future of the building and site. In early June a Reception will introduce community leaders to the project. Later in the year, the house will host a community-wide open house and the second annual Old Settlers Day.

Strawbridge-Shepherd House lies between the UIS and LLCC campuses along Shepherd Road. The Iles House Foundation directs restoration of the 1845 homestead, located on UIS property.

Work to date has progressed steadily. Funded by several generous donations and small grants, restoration expert Tom Bundy rebuilt much of the foundation, underpinned the structure, and installed a new wood shingle roof. Several student and community volunteers have assisted with the project.

Restoration this year will focus on major systems within the house and finishing work on the interior. We urgently need assistance in the form of contributions, donations, volunteer time, etc. If you can help, please call Sue Massie at 217-544-3210.

The Real McCoy

2008-05-14T19:33:00.004-05:00

Did you know....that the "real McCoy" was born in Sangamon County, Illinois? Joseph McCoy (1831-1915) later emigrated to Texas, where he became a cattle baron. He promoted the Longhorn (see above), turned Abilene into a cow town, and sent two million head to Chicago in four years, a feat that spawned the "real McCoy" phrase. McCoy wrote a history of his achievements, not published until 1974.

Scouts visit Elijah Iles House

2008-04-28T20:07:00.004-05:00

Dozens of Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts from all over Illinois visited the Elijah Iles House during their visit to Springfield for the 63rd Annual Lincoln Pilgimage. One troop came all the way from Davenport, Iowa.

The scouts learned all about frontier-era Springfield during their visit and the kind of place the town was when Abraham Lincoln first arrived. The new museum exhibit in the basement was of particular interest to many.

The scouts had their choice of many historic sites to visit in Springfield. We were thrilled that so many of them chose to include the Iles House in their itinerary.

Robert Irwin Portrait

2008-04-06T11:17:00.005-05:00

Chase Bank, formerly Marine Bank, recently gave to Iles House a portrait of Robert Irwin, early Springfield merchant and friend of Abraham Lincoln. Irwin lived at Iles House from 1841 until his death. He was a director of Springfield Fire and Marine Insurance Company, and he helped to finance Lincoln's presidential campaign in 1860.

During Lincoln's term of office, Irwin collected local debts owed to the President. A month before the assassination, Irwin died on March 8, 1865. He is buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, at the north end of Springfield. His oil portrait is believed to be the work of American artist George Peter Alexander Healy (1808-1894).

Photos: Richard Hart

Prairie Archives

2008-03-04T21:09:00.003-06:00

One of Springfield's great cultural gems is Prairie Archives, launched by John Paul in 1971. This classic book store has become a fixture on the south side of the Old State Capitol Plaza. A recent story in the Chicago Tribune pays tribute to the store and its long tradition of serving history buffs who visit Springfield from all parts of the world.

Picture courtesy of Jerome Prophet, a current Springfield blog.

1860 Ball

2008-02-10T12:11:00.001-06:00

An 1860-period ball was held at
the Executive Mansion on
Saturday, Feb 9, 2008.
The State Journal-Register
has a gallery of 11 pictures, all by
Ted Schurter of the SJR staff.

Holiday Book Signing

2008-01-21T19:25:00.001-06:00

On December 19, 2007, Iles House hosted the Sangamon County Historical Society. Members took a house tour and heard talks by contributors to In Lincoln’s Shadow, a new book that presents stories by 43 persons who have family plots at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Not just food for the mind: Phyllis Eubanks and Jone VanWinkle present a holiday spread of cookies and brownies, served with hot and cold cider.

Edith Trutter Hauff, daughter of John Trutter, 1st president of SCHS, speaks about his life. He was a veteran of WW II, a retired vice-president of AT&T, and chancellor of the Lincoln Academy for 16 years.

Ida Mae Johnson (center) is one of the book contributors. She brought family pictures to share, including one of her grandmother, who was a slave in Missouri and moved to Illinois after the Civil War. Behind Ida Mae are her daughters, Myra (left) and Kris (right).

Ida Mae Johnson shows some of her photos to the group, assisted by Nancy Chapin, treasurer of the SCHS. In the background is Martha Woods Wolters, contributor to In Lincoln’s Shadow, who later shared more Woods family stories.

Audience, left to right: Nancy Chapin, Ida Johnson, Dr. Gil Pilapil (chair of the book project), Pat Rudolph and Phyllis Herndon Brissendon (both contributors) and Carolyn Moore, president of the SCHS. In the background is Arnold Stern, also a contributor.

Signed copies of the book are available from the SCHS web site.

Pictures by Dick Hart; captions by Jane Chapin.

Maisenbacher House

2007-12-12T10:25:00.001-06:00

The Maisenbacher House, a classic brick Italian home of the 1850s, sits on South 7th Street and is a place that Mr. Lincoln knew in his daily life. Now its survival is threatened by development of the Springfield Clinic. As this photo indicates, initial dismantling of the building occurred this fall.

Many forces in the community have rallied to oppose this attack on the Aristocracy Hill neighborhood, from the Springfield Historical Sites Commission to private citizens like Job Conger.

Discussions are underway between the Clinic and several groups, including the Iles House Foundation, about preserving the Maisenbacher. If you think Springfield should save its heritage, not tear it down, please lend your voice. Leave comments here, write to the Journal-Register, or call the Iles House Foundation--at the number above.

Fall Candlelight Tours

2007-10-28T14:20:00.000-05:00

Elijah and Malinda Iles welcomed about 400 guests into their home for candlelight tours on the evenings of Oct 26 & 27.

Visitors were guided throughout the home, learning about its architecture and construction, its many famous guests, its various owners as well as its two relocations and the efforts made over the years for its preservation.

Dave Stevens uses his cane to point out the many features and fine details of the house.

Visitors ascend the stairway to the upper story to tour the bedrooms and see more period furniture and antiques from the Barringer Collection and other donors.

Dave Barringer guides a group of visitors through the upper story. After touring the historic areas of the house, guests were invited to the basement for fresh baked cookies, hot chocolate and cider.

Photos by Logan McMinn

A Magical Day

2007-10-21T19:25:00.000-05:00

Old Settler's Day was a huge success, beyond everyone's dreams. More than 1,000 visitors attended the 4-hour gathering on Oct 20, a perfect fall day of clear skies and bright sunshine.

The visitors took away so many memories, from a horse and cart carrying riders along the prairie grass. . .

. . . to a concert of Civil War-era music by the Illinois Cavalry Band. Guests sat on straw bales before the Strawbridge-Shepherd House, its exterior newly restored and trimmed.

At Mrs. Shepherd's Pantry, volunteers sold donated pumpkins, preserves, pies and cakes. All proceeds will benefit phase 2 of the restoration, set to continue in 2008.

Big surprise of the day: arrival of the Shepherd Family, three generations from Knoxville, Iowa. They told stories about life in the house, described its rooms and furniture, and volunteered to provide more assistance in the future.

Years ago, Old Settlers Day was a tradition to honor those who settled in Springfield before the Winter of 1830-31. Several descendants of those pioneers attended yesterday and told their stories. All the organizers agree: it was a magical day, full of generosity and happiness, giving life once more to a bygone era.

Pictures by Dick Hart
Memories by R-Lou Barker

Fall Festivals

2007-10-20T10:50:00.001-05:00

This fall has been festive for the

Iles House Foundation
and its growing circle of friends.

Oct. 11: Springfield Polka Club dances at a nursing home
and holds a pizza party at the Iles House.

Oct 15: Mark McDonald, host of Illinois Story on WSEC,
films a segment on SS House for airing Oct 18-22.
Here, he interviews R-Lou Barker about early bone china.

Oct 19: a reception at Iles House to benefit the SS House.
Kerry Franke readies the oyster bar for Betty Franke and Tom Bundy.
Tom is restoration director at the Strawbridge-Shepherd House.

Old Settler's Day!

2007-10-17T21:21:00.001-05:00

Fall Work at SS House

2007-10-09T12:44:00.001-05:00

With the arrival of fall, we have completed
Stage 1 of restoring the Strawbridge-Shepherd House.
Next, we must button down the house for winter
and raise funds for Stage 2.

Here, the fund-raising committee works at plans
for a large October Event. More news of that soon!

Ongoing work: replacing the roof with cedar shingles
and restoring the original shutters to the windows.
Note the classic Greek Revival look of the front face.

Our restoration contractor, Tom Bundy,
measures the original basement opening.

Also planned: extensive tree work to remove
dead or dying limbs. The trees are nearly
as old as the house!

All pictures by R-Lou Barker of Springfield.

New Citizens

2007-09-10T11:23:00.000-05:00

On September 7, 2007,
Ann and Dick Hart attended
a Citizenship Ceremony
held in the Old State Capitol.

Seated in the House of Representatives,
candidates for citizenship await
the entry of Judge Jean Scott.

The candidates swear allegiance to
the United States of America
before the clerk of the District Court.

The new citizens receive
certificates and greetings from
Judge Scott, Judge Holmes, and the Clerk.

The Harts' friend, Maritza Monk,
formerly of Mexico City,
just prior to becoming a
United States Citizen.

Pictures by Dick Hart.

Lincoln Film

2007-08-31T11:49:00.001-05:00

Early in August, the Iles House became a movie set.
The film depicts the life of Abraham Lincoln
and is using several historic Springfield locations.

The cast consists of many Iles House docents
and re-enactors from the 114th Civil War Regiment.
Here, they are in costume and waiting for their close-ups.

Abe and Mary Lincoln, preparing for a shot.
Technicians "smoked" the set to soften the light.

On the front porch, technicians check still images
for the balance of color and light.

The ladies of 1858, getting ready for a scene.
The movie will play at the Lincoln Library and Museum.
Release is expected in early 2008.

Lincoln Highway

2007-08-19T11:47:00.001-05:00

Click on map to enlarge.

The Lincoln Highway was America's first coast-to-coast road, passing through 14 states on a journey of 5,869 miles, from New York to California. As a young Army officer, Dwight Eisenhower traveled it in 1919, and that experience inspired his later call for a federal Interstate highway system.

You may still travel the road, and a Lincoln Highway Association exists to preserve and publicize. Check out that site for a description of the Illinois section. Might make a good auto trip for early fall. Here's a book site with many photos of the highway today.

SS House Restoration

2007-07-22T10:02:00.001-05:00

Dick Hart recently visited the SS House site to check on its progress.

Replacing the old roof and shingles.

Repairing the stone foundation.

Replacing sills and studs.

View from east side.
Original house to right, ell to left.

Pictures by Richard Hart

SS House Again

2007-07-17T07:47:00.001-05:00

More pictures by R-Lou Barker of restoration work at Strawbridge-Shepherd House.

Concrete blocks, original stones, new sills.

Timbers for use as sills or beams.

Five-acre prairie behind the house.

Original barn, to the rear.

SS House Today

2007-07-16T08:01:00.001-05:00

R-Lou Barker made a recent visit to the Strawbridge-Shepherd House and shot pictures of its restoration progress. (Click on pictures to enlarge.)

An elegant sign announces the project and its sponsors.

Front view of a Greek-Revival beauty.

Tom Bundy, at work on the foundation.

Old stones and sill; note the rotting.

More pictures to come in next entry.

SS House Back Area

2007-06-14T20:45:00.001-05:00

At the Strawbridge-Shepherd House,
Tom Bundy and crew are restoring the back area.
Above, a workman excavates below the first floor near HVAC ducts.

Workers replaced the old collapsed foundation with new sills and beams.

The exposed basement reveals early stone and brick work, ca. 1850.

If you want to contribute time or money to the project,
please call or write to the Iles House (address above).

Pictures by Dick Hart

Preservation Award

2007-06-07T10:16:00.000-05:00

On May 14, the Elijah Iles House Foundation was named Preservationist of the Year at the 15th annual Mayor's Awards for Historic Preservation. Several hundred were present for the event, held at The Inn at 835.

Describing the Iles House as “one of the real jewels in the city,” Springfield Mayor Tim Davlin said the award honors the Foundation for its efforts over the past decade to restore the structure, which is the city's oldest residence.

The organization also won recognition for its work, with the University of Illinois at Springfield, to restore one of the oldest farmsteads in central Illinois, the 1841 Strawbridge-Shepherd House at the edge of the UIS campus.

Winners of the awards are selected by the Springfield Historic Sites Commission. Dave Barringer, Mike Dunbar and Dick Hart accepted the award on behalf of the Foundation.

Above and below are images taken at the S-S House on Sunday, May 20. Members of the House committee are discussing restoration of the four-acre prairie behind the house and renovation of the house foundation and sill, which are badly deteriorated.

Donations to support this work are welcome. Please use the phone or e-mail address above.

PS: The house needs 8 volunteer docents to lead tours this season. If interested, please call!

SS House Progress

2007-05-19T20:31:00.000-05:00

This picture dates from last April 19, when the Strawbridge-Shepherd committee visited the House to meet with Professor William Siles and students from his UIS class on historic preservation.

Dick Hart is speaking to the group, which included Carolyn Oxtoby (right) and other members of the committee. The restoration team has made great progress on the House since last winter, and we hope to have more pictures soon.

Photo by Carol J. Dyson

Mourning Period

2007-04-21T21:35:00.000-05:00

More images of the Lincoln mourning decorations have arrived.
Here, volunteers attach traditional funeral bunting to the porch railing.

This group of visitors represented Company A-14 Michigan Infantry.
They are members of Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.

Viewed from any angle, the house has a somber appearance.

The mourning period ends on May 4, anniversary of the Lincoln funeral.

Pictures by Dulany Sriner

In Memoriam

2007-04-15T12:32:00.000-05:00

Abraham Lincoln died 142 years ago today, at 7:22 am on April 15, 1865. His friends, Elijah Iles and Robert Irwin, mourned as did all of Springfield.

In memory of his death, the Iles House is decorated in mourning drapery from April 15 until the Lincoln funeral date of May 4. A photo and a video of the decoration process appears on the State Journal-Register site.

This observance marks the first time since 1865 that Springfield has so honored the passing of its famous citizen and America's greatest President.

Tribute by Henry Ward Beecher, pastor of Plymouth Church, Brooklyn, New York:

Four year ago, O Illinois, we took from your midst an untried man and from among the people. We return him to you a mighty conquerer. Not thine any more, but the nation's; not ours, but the world's. Give him place, O ye prairies. In the midst of this great continent his dust shall rest, a sacred treasure to myriads who shall pilgrim to that shrine to kindle anew their zeal and patriotism.

Pictures by Dick Hart

More Findings

2007-04-12T13:05:00.000-05:00

Restoration work at the Strawbridge-Shepherd House.
Here, stored items lie in front of the summer kitchen.

Shutters, wood work, lightning rods, tables, chests, windows, and doors.
Note the prairie acreage at the rear.

A fireplace surround, probably from the house second floor.

Two bent wood wheel chairs.

Charles and Dennis power-wash the shutters.
Almost fifty have been recovered.

The restoration contractor, Tom Bundy, says the shutters are original.
He plans to have them painted and reinstalled.

Charles Taylor power-washes a brick sidewalk by the kitchen.

Results of the power-washing.
Summer kitchens were used to keep heat out of houses.

Early visitors to the house. Left to Right:
William Siles, UIS Professor of History; Ian Hunt, UIS student; Rosie Serio, UIS student; Christine Morris, Program Officer for the Midwest Office of the National Trust for Historic Preservation; and Carol Dyson, Senior Preservation Architect, IHPA

All pictures by Richard Hart

Happy Spring

2007-04-08T10:01:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, March 31st, Iles House volunteers rose early to provide water to half-marathon runners. The House was their first water stop on the 13-mile journey. For more pictures of the race, see the DS Digitals site.

At noon a ribbon-cutting ceremony opened the new brick patio, which provides outdoor dining and easy access to the ground floor and elevator. Mr. Iles (left) joined visitors for nibbles.

In the afternoon, local experts continued their round-table discussion of historic preservation issues in Springfield and Sangamon County. All in all, a very busy day to welcome spring!

Pictures by Dulany Sriner

Busy Day for Elijah

2007-03-30T09:39:00.000-05:00

Mr. Iles kept very busy on his birthday.
First, check the watch.
Yes, time for a little coffee and cake downstairs.

Do we have enough reminders of age around here?

Next, escort the first rider to the new elevator lift.

Watch her snip the ceremonial ribbon.

A moment for contemplation.
How time has gone by!

Finally, take in the round table discussion.
Here's to all those who remember and honor the past.

Pictures by Dulany Sriner

Iles Day

2007-03-28T11:28:00.000-05:00

March 28 is the birthday of Elijah Iles (1796-1883), and opening day of Iles House for the 2007 season. We are now entering the third year of operation and the house has evolved considerably from the picture above, taken on Opening Day in September, 2005.

Today begins regular House tours, offered from 10 am to 4 pm every Wed and Sat until late December. Tours are led by period costumed guides or well-informed docents. At 11:15 am we will have a dedication and opening ceremony for the new elevator lift, providing service to disabled visitors. A program of 19th-century American music will follow, with service of free cake and Melinda Iles punch.

In the afternoon, students from the Iles School will perform choral and instrumental music, and experts will deliver a round table on historic preservation in Sangamon County. Iles House is the oldest home in Springfield, and it is open again to everyone.

Layers of the Past

2007-03-17T22:59:00.000-05:00

Restoration work at the Strawbridge-Shepherd House on the UIS campus has proceeded this winter, despite heavy snows and bitter cold. Above we see a worker removing a drop ceiling on the second floor. Peeling back layers of the past brings to light constant discoveries.

First floor, northeast room: removal of wall paneling and dropped ceiling exposes an early fireplace location, which fits a mantle found stored in the summer kitchen. The original wall paint is a mustard color, and stencils appear on both ceiling and walls.

First floor, southeast room: removal of carpet and floor reveals the original wide planks. The top part of the mantle is Greek Revival and also came from the summer kitchen.

Second floor, northeast room: workers uncover an original firebox and flue. Most of the rooms have fireplaces, a fact that reflects on the winters those early residents faced.

Pictures by Dick Hart.

Brinkerhoff House

2007-03-08T10:17:00.000-06:00

A Victorian monument on the north side of Springfield, the George M. Brinkerhoff House stands at 1500 North Fifth Street. Built in 1869 for $17,000 ($250,000 today), the home was occupied by the Brinkerhoff family until 1926.

G. M. Brinkerhoff was a teacher at Illinois State University, helped organize railway and iron companies in Springfield, and served in city government as comptroller and auditor.

In 1926 the Ursuline Order bought the home and used it as an administration building. In the 1970s Doris Bucari of the Springfield College Board helped to save it from demolition. Today it is available for private events and remains a treasure of historic preservation.

Photographs by Dulany Sriner; see more at his site.

Strawbridge-Shepherd House

2007-02-22T09:36:00.000-06:00

Today the University of Illinois at Springfield and the Iles House Foundation announced an agreement on the Strawbridge-Shepherd House, an 1845 home on University land.

The University has granted the Foundation a 10-year lease and the two institutions will work together to preserve and maintain the property. Some restoration work began in late November, as seen in these pictures.

Details about the agreement appear in today's issue of the State Journal-Register. The Foundation has raised seed funds to launch this project, and it welcomes contributions from the public. Eventually the Strawbridge-Shepherd House will serve Sangamon County as the Iles House serves Springfield, as places for preserving and learning about a remarkable past.

Pictures by Dick Hart

Robert Davis

2007-02-21T09:56:00.000-06:00

On Feb 20, Iles House hosted the Sangamon County Historical Society. The guest speaker was Robert Davis, who delivered a moving first-person account of Andrew Lewis, a slave who escaped to freedom and fought in the Civil War with the 29th Illinois Regiment.

Mr. Davis is pictured here with his wife, Patricia J. Davis, who works in recruitment for the SIU School of Medicine. A fiscal officer with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Mr. Davis holds degrees from Princeton and Chicago, and he has taught at Lincoln Land and the University of Illinois at Springfield.

He grew up in Detroit, where he heard stories about the Civil War from his parents and grandparents. Born in 1886 and 1889, his grandparents lived near Comer, Georgia, and spoke often about General Sherman's army marching through Georgia.

Mr. Davis is active with Civil War re-enactors and hopes one day to form an African-American cavalry unit, complete with uniforms and horses. Recently he joined the board of directors of the Abraham Lincoln Association.

Pictures by Dick Hart

Meacham Reception

2007-02-13T21:57:00.000-06:00

The speaker of the hour on Lincoln Day was Jon Meacham, editor of Newsweek, seen here making a hasty departure to try to beat the Feb 12 blizzard. (See below for update.)

On the evening of February 11, the Iles House hosted a reception for the Abraham Lincoln Association. The event capped a year of presidency of the ALA for Richard Hart, seen above in the center, and flanked by Robert Lenz and Richard Marroc.

Also attending was Kathryn Harris, Director of Library Services for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library.

Update: Mr. Meacham's jet taxied to the end of the runway at Capitol Airport, but it could not take off. Thanks to the Big Snow, he spent part of Valentine's Day still in Lincoln Land.

Pictures by Dulany Sriner.

Lincoln Days

2007-02-10T15:49:00.000-06:00

Much excitement in Springfield this weekend, as citizens gather to mark the 198th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln. A reception for distinguished guests will be held at the Iles House at 6 pm on Sunday, February 11.

On Monday, February 12, the Abraham Lincoln Association will hold its annual dinner at the Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center. The Association president this year is Richard E. Hart, a Springfield attorney and founding member of the Iles House board.

The banquet speaker is Jon Meacham, editor of Newsweek and author of distinguished books on civil rights, the Roosevelt-Churchill friendship, and religion in American political life. His address title is "The Will of God Prevails: Abraham Lincoln and American Religion."

Also of historic note: on Saturday, February 10, the junior U. S. Senator from Illinois, Barack Obama, declared his candidacy for President in the 2008 election. His setting was the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln made his famous "House Divided" speech against slavery.

Lifelong Learning

2007-02-03T15:02:00.000-06:00

Recent visitors to the Iles House included members of the Academy of Life-Long Learning, sponsored by Lincoln Land Community College.

Over forty seniors from the Springfield area enjoyed a tour of the House and a presentation by John Alexander. Mr. Alexander was a member of the Illinois Constitutional Convention in the 1960s. He now owns Books on the Square, a store in Virden that specializes in the history and genealogy of Macoupin County.

As you may tell from the presence of heavy coats, the winter afternoon was cold, but good cheer and warm smiles prevailed.

Pictures and story by Dick Hart.

Metamora Courthouse

2007-01-02T11:02:00.000-06:00

In January-February, the Iles House closes and holds few scheduled events. To pass the winter, we will look in on other historic sites in Illinois and the Midwest.

Before Christmas, Dulany Sriner made a visit to the Peoria-Pekin area and took in the famous courthouse at Metamora, Illinois. Built in 1845, the two-story brick building served as the seat of Woodford County until that shifted to Eureka in 1896.

Abraham Lincoln practiced law on the Eighth Judicial Circuit in this building, one of only two that survive from that era. (The other is at Mt. Pulaski.) The flag above the judicial chair flew at one of the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas debates.

The courtroom has original flooring but otherwise is restored with period furnishings and accessories. It's open to the public Wed-Sat and closed on major holidays. For information about hours, call (309) 367-4470.

Thanks to Dulany for his pictures and time.

Merry Christmas

2006-12-24T14:37:00.000-06:00

We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature. —Lincoln's First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1861.

Pictures of New Salem by Dulany Sriner

Questors Dinner

2006-12-20T12:39:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday, December 19, Iles House played host to a Christmas party for the Questors of Rochester, who call themselves the Chickenbristle Chapter.

The word Chickenbristle is of uncertain origin. Vachel Lindsay uses the name in his poem, "Bryan, Bryan, Bryan, Bryan" to refer to a small hamlet near Riverton and Rochester.

At the dinner, Dave Barringer and Mike Denk acted as waiters to the 15 guests, serving up a green salad and baked lasanga. Linda Denk ran the kitchen with great aplomb.

Helen Duffey, an artist who is still active at 96, became our first visitor to use the new lift.

The house was decorated for Christmas and seasonal music in the background provided just the right mood.

Pictures by Dick Hart

Holiday Tours

2006-12-10T10:13:00.000-06:00

Candlelight tours for the holiday season: Dec 8-9 and 15-16, 6:30-8:30 pm, with refreshments. The public is invited and admission is free. That was our plan for those two weekends, but on Friday, Dec 8, we had 0 attendees!

Problems with getting an ad published and delivered were responsible, and the weather of the past week didn't help. But to keep docent spirits high, Dick Hart returned from Gabatoni's with two pizzas, and everyone had a great time talking, telling stories and enjoying the house decorations.

Saturday Dec 9 was a different story. Visitors were on the front porch at 6:30 pm and the stream continued all evening. A great cross-section of Springfield turned out: young, old, and from every part of town. People made heart-warming comments, thankful that the House has been saved. One visitor exclaimed, "This is the real deal," meaning he'd never seen such an authentic restoration.

We are grateful that so many appreciate the preservation of Springfield's rich history. Beside Elijah Ile's candlelit fireplace, we may all glimpse the past on a cold winter's night.

Pictures by Dulany Sriner

AAUW Party

2006-12-05T20:17:00.000-06:00

On the evening of Saturday, December 2, the American Association of University Women held a champagne and dessert party at the Iles House.

Founded in 1881, the AAUW has for 125 years promoted education and equity for women and girls. The Springfield chapter has supported programs that provide graduate fellowships for women and prevent sex discrimination in hiring or promotion cases.

The weather that evening was ice, snow and record cold, but over 150 guests came to enjoy dessert and conversation at the Iles House. Lit by candlelight, the House looked out toward trees glistening with ice, and for a moment one could imagine a winter night in 1881.

Pictures by Dick Hart.

Docents & DAR

2006-11-24T09:49:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, Nov 17, the Iles House played host to two groups, the docents who provide guide and host services throughout the year, and the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Here the docents discuss their duties and schedules over lunch. David Stevens (ivory sweater) provides advice and feedback.

Dick describes the Iles House as "Springfield's home," as it has rapidly become a gathering and meeting place for many historic-minded associations.

The DAR, descendants of ancestors who achieved American independence, has existed since the late 1800s. 2006 marks the 60th anniversary of the Caleb Hopkins chapter of central Illinois.

That eerie face in the silver tray is David Stevens. Pictures are by Dulany Sriner.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T21:19:00.000-06:00

From Springfield's Oldest House

To Yours

Happy Thanksgiving!

AIG Reception

2006-11-16T11:53:00.000-06:00

On Nov 15, employees of AIG (American International Group) held a reception at Iles House. Over 50 attended the event, after a day of meetings at the Springfield office (former Franklin Life). Catering was by Augie's Front Burner of Springfield.

Several executives of AIG were present, along with managers from the Midwest region. On behalf of Iles House, Dick Hart welcomed the group and thanked AIG for the gift of a parking lot at Seventh and Cook.

Pictures and story by Dick Hart

Vachel Lindsay

2006-11-09T20:24:00.000-06:00

November 10 is the birthday of Vachel Lindsay. He was born in Springfield in 1879 and died there in 1931. He studied art in Chicago and New York and then traveled all over the USA, lecturing and reading his poems. He remains today Springfield's most famous writer.

An article in today's Journal-Register describes the recent discovery of a letter that Lindsay wrote in 1928 to Susan Wilcox, his English teacher at SHS. The letter passed to Elizabeth Graham and then to Jaqueline Jackson, and only by good luck recently came to light.

The letter praises Miss Wilcox for her work on a student literary magazine and admires the writers' names, which ranged ". . . from Portuguese to Lithuanian. I read back into the family histories of some of them, just from the names. The old Springfield names have a special thrill for me, even though none of them represent intimates."

Lindsay's letter has returned to the library of SHS. The picture above is of his wife, Elizabeth, and their children, all described in the Wilcox letter. An extensive collection of Lindsay manuscripts survives at Firestone Library, Princeton University.

Candlelight Tour

2006-11-02T07:19:00.000-06:00

On October 27-28, Iles House hosted its Candlelight Tour, a repeat of the popular seasonal event held last year. With its rooms lighted with candles, the House takes on a glow that reminds visitors of the past.

About 250 visitors attended, many of them from outlying parts of Sangamon county. Here they view pictures that depict moving the House to its present site in 1998.

Iles House Foundation president Dave Barringer (white shirt) gives visitors an overview of the House purpose, to serve as a museum of Springfield history and to raise awareness of the need for historical preservation in central Illinois.

A group of volunteer guides help to interpret the House, and several of them wear period costumes from the 1840s, the ladies in wide hoop skirts and the gentlement in frock coats and top hats. Amid the glow of candles, long ago seems to come alive.

Pictures by Dulany Sriner

Lincoln's Ghost Walk

2006-10-31T11:37:00.000-06:00

Halloween night, October 31, is your last chance in 2006 to take "Lincoln's Ghost Walk."

The walk takes 90 minutes and covers 12 blocks of historic neighborhoods in central Springfield.

Information on where to buy tickets is at this site.

If you see any ghosts, please report them in the comment below.

And . . . BOO!

End in Sight!

2006-10-28T22:08:00.000-05:00

Dulany Sriner sent these images of the rear elevator addition, where construction is nearly done. Landscaping has begun with placement of several large sandstone boulders. (Click on the pictures to see enlargments.)

A sloping board walk with hand rails provides access for disabled visitors. The addition is a concession to modern design, but its windows and materials complement the original Greek Revival style. Ground cover and shrubs will complete the project, just before winter closes in.

Southern Illinois

2006-10-19T15:36:00.000-05:00

Dulany Sriner sent these images of a fall trip he and his wife made to southern Illinois.

"From Carbondale and the Salukis at homecoming to Chester, Illinois, the home of Popeye, we looped down to the southernmost tip of Illinois in Cairo, then headed down the Ohio river and up the Mississippi."

The pictures remind us that Illinois extends from the Great Lakes to the southern Delta. And also that Springfield sits on the Mason-Dixon line, home to settlers from north and south.

Thanks to Dulany for his pictures. Click on them to see enlargements, and visit D's Digitals for even more images of Illinois, Springfield, and the Iles House.

Autumn Events

2006-10-12T21:14:00.000-05:00

Fall has arrived at Iles House, as you may see from the colorful display of mums and other autumn flowers in the front garden on Seventh Street.

On the south side (Cook Street), the picket and board fence is in view, and also the elevator shaft.

At the rear, construction nears completion. A handsome board walk descends through a garden area. By next spring, it will bloom as well.

To see the schedule of House events, click on "Iles House Calendar" in the right column.

Thanks to Dick Hart and Dulany Sriner for the pictures. Click on them to see enlargements!

Elevator Progress

2006-10-03T11:01:00.000-05:00

Workmen continue to make progress on the elevator at the rear of the Iles House. Exterior carpentry is complete and now masonry begins. The bricks will match those on the lower level of the house.

When finished, the House will have an attractive rear entrance to the Museum of Springfield History and easy access to the upper floors. Thanks to Dick Hart for the picture.

Please note the Iles House Calendar in the upper-right list of links. Click there to see a schedule of forthcoming events.

Clocks & Watches

2006-09-24T20:18:00.000-05:00

Illinois Watch Poster

On October 7, 2006 at 1:00 pm, Les McAlister of St. Louis, an authority on the Sangamo Electric Company and its famous clocks, will give a talk at the Iles House. He will show several clocks from his collection and take questions for about an hour.

Afterwards, he and two experts will examine Sangamo clocks brought by members of the audience. The experts will offer information about clock history, but not give appraisals of monetary value.

Currently on exhibit in the first-floor museum of Iles House are many examples of memorabilia and products from the Illinois Watch Company, as seen in these pictures supplied by Dulany Sriner.

Display of Illinois Watches

Moving Day

2006-09-14T09:51:00.000-05:00

Dulany Sriner recently sent several pictures of August 30, 1998, the day the Iles House moved from 1825 South Fifth Street to Seventh and Cook Streets. The original historic location was Sixth and Cook. More photos of the Iles House and other Springfield attractions are available on Dulany's web site, D's Digitals.

Departing old location, 1825 South Fifth

Navigating around trees and shrubs

Cherry pickers lifting power lines

At new location, 7th and Cook

Fall Progress

2006-09-10T17:23:00.000-05:00

Fall has come to the Iles House, which on its Seventh Street side presents a finished front, with its laid sidewalk and hand-built fencing. The house follows Greek Revival design, a style popular in antebellum America, but its elevated front porch resembles Southern houses, which had to rise above ground that could be damp or snake-and-roach infested.

On the rear face, progress is altering the house's original lines, as workmen continue to install an enclosed elevator shaft. This structure will provide access for visitors with disabilities and puts the house into compliance with state and federal guidelines. Depending on weather, construction should be complete in one month.

Pictures are courtesy of Dick Hart

Balloons Over Lincoln

2006-09-04T08:05:00.000-05:00

The town of Lincoln, Illinois held an Art and Balloon Festival August 25-27, and Dulany Sriner was on hand to take several pictures. Launched from Logan County Airport, the hot air balloons soared for three evenings, making quite an aerial display at dusk.

This event began in 1974, when town committees staged an art fair at the Logan County courthouse. Latham Park* later became the venue, and balloons entered the scene in 1989. They drew such crowds that the airport location was approved in 2005.

Dulany has more photos on his gallery site, D's Digitals, and the town of Lincoln also offers a photo album of this new prairie tradition.

Photos courtesy of Dulany Sriner.

* Dick Hart reminds me that Latham Park has a connection with Iles House: "Latham Souther, the man who saved the house in 1910, is a descendant of the Latham family that settled on Elkhart Hill and were active in early events in Logan County. The Iles House has a full history of the family prepared by David Stevens, a docent and a descendant of Latham Souther. We also have furniture donated by the Souther family that once belonged to the Latham family. It was indeed a small world in early central Illinois."

Tall Ships

2006-08-26T13:17:00.000-05:00

During August 3-9, the city of Chicago hosted a parade of Tall Ships, a collection of antique and classic boats from many nations of the world. Visitors were invited to board the boats and also watch them under sail along the shore of Lake Michigan.

Included were barques, brigs, caravels, ketches, schooners, and sloops. Ships of this size often sailed the Great Lakes, at least during open water seasons.

Dulany Sriner, who often photographs the Iles House, visited Chicago that weekend and took many beautiful shots, which are available in prints from D's Digitals.

Here are two of his pictures, for which we send many thanks.