Taste of History
A progressive evening of cocktails and hors d'oeuvres returns! The Taste of History event returns this year Saturday, October 7 from 5-9pm. During this event, you’ll explore five of Decatur’s history sites while enjoying delicious hors d’oeuves and drinks at each location.
Biography of Sheridan Wait
Biography of Sheridan Wait, Trusted Friend to Governor Oglesby.
S.S. Richard J. Oglesby
Unknown to most people in Decatur or Illinois, the name “Richard J. Oglesby” was heard once again 44 years after the governor’s death. It wasn’t used in connection to a Civil War book or a statue, but his name was remembered in a very special way.
The Historic Richard J. Oglesby Mansion in Decatur, Illinois
Richard J. Oglesby is recognized as one of Decatur’s most distinguished citizens. He served his country well as a U.S. Senator, a Union General in the Civil War, a three-term governor of Illinois, and a close friend and colleague of Abraham Lincoln.
The Mansion was built in 1875-76 after his second marriage. The original plans for Oglesby Mansion were by William LeBaron Jenney, a Chicago architect who was best known for designing the first modern skyscraper. The Oglesbys modified the plans a great deal and hired a local contractor to build the house for them. Two of their four children were born while they lived in the house. In 1882 they moved to Lincoln Illinois and then to Elkhart where they built a much larger house on Elkhart Hill.
The house was sold to James E. Bering in 1882 and he and his descendants lived in the house until 1972. At that time, the Mansion was purchased by the Macon County Conservation District with a state grant. Restoration began in 1976 and continues today. The care and restoration of the house is under the direction of the Governor Oglesby Mansion, Inc.
Tour the Oglesby Mansion
The Governor Richard J. Oglesby Mansion is open for tours.
March – November
Last Sunday of the Month
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
June, July, August
Wednesdays & Saturdays
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
A $2.00 donation per person is requested. Special tours for individuals and groups may also be arranged for a fee.
For more information, please call 217-877-2217.
We are located at:
421 West William St.
Decatur, IL 62522