Owen Lovejoy House - Princeton, IL

Owen Lovejoy House - A Historical Gem in Princeton, IL

The Owen Lovejoy House, located at Rural Route 3, E Peru St, Princeton, IL 61356, is a must-visit historical site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. This iconic house is renowned for its rich history and is a prime example of a historical place museum and tourist attraction.

Key Features and Location

• Address: Rural Route 3, E Peru St, Princeton, IL 61356
• Phone: 58799151
• Specialties: Historical place museum, Tourist attraction
• Other points of interest: Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Restaurant, Good for kids

Specialties and Services

The Owen Lovejoy House offers a unique experience for visitors, allowing them to explore the rich history of the area through its well-preserved exhibits and guided tours. The house is a prime example of a historical place museum, showcasing the life and times of Owen Lovejoy, a prominent abolitionist and congressman from the 19th century. Visitors can learn about the influential figure's contributions to American history and explore the house's various rooms, each with its own unique historical significance.

The house is also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the region who are interested in learning more about the area's history and culture. With its wheelchair accessible parking lot, on-site restaurant, and family-friendly atmosphere, the Owen Lovejoy House is an ideal destination for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Opinions and Reviews

With 43 reviews on Google My Business, the Owen Lovejoy House has earned an impressive average rating of 4.6/5. Visitors consistently praise the house for its well-preserved exhibits, knowledgeable guides, and immersive experience. One reviewer noted that the house "is almost a must to stop by and visit," while another praised the curator's "great passion" for sharing the history of the area.

However, some visitors have noted that photography is not allowed inside the house. While this may be a disappointment for some, the restriction is in place to protect the delicate exhibits and ensure that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the experience. Many visitors who have visited the house have come to understand and appreciate this policy, recognizing its importance in preserving the house's historical integrity.

Overall, the Owen Lovejoy House is a highly recommended destination for anyone interested in history, culture, or simply exploring the region. With its prime location, diverse offerings, and excellent reviews, it's easy to see why this historical site has become a beloved landmark in Princeton, IL.

👍 Reviews of Owen Lovejoy House

Rich K.

5/5

The historic home and school are almost a must to stop by and visit. A wonderful lady who is the curator of this museum and also a guide will tell you about the history of this place with great passion. It's worth it and you should be here. The only thing that puzzles me before I started looking at this house ... It is forbidden to take pictures inside. But when I looked inside the house, I understood why.

Philip R.

5/5

A nice stop to make, and not far from the interstate. AIR CONDITIONED!
Worthwhile to see an Underground Railroad stop, and a local one room, brick school house on one site.
One wonders at the sight of Rev. Lovejoy driving a buggy throughout town with runaway slaves as passengers, flaunting this in front of the 'law'.
Our tour guide also told us of Princeton's 'Red Bridge' covered bridge, open to cars and pick ups, about a quarter mile north of the interstate, and a left turn. Watch for the signs.

Karen R.

4/5

It was closed when we got there, but we still checked out the outside of the house. It was one of the last stops on the underground railroad before they made it to freedom.

Warren S.

5/5

Has been on my list to see.

Mike S.

4/5

Currently closed due to COVID 19 regulations

A Former Station on the Underground Railroad, the Lovejoy Homestead is located at the eastern edge of Princeton, Illinois, and was the home of the Denham and Lovejoy families for nearly 100 years.

Reverend Lovejoy was its most famous resident and occupied the house from 1838 until his death in 1864. Lovejoy was prominent in the abolition movement and the Underground Railroad, a founder of the Illinois and national Republican party, and a congressional leader.

Lovejoy is perhaps best known for his role in the Underground Railroad. As an outspoken abolitionist, he openly proclaimed his willingness to assist fugitive slaves. His involvement made this house one of the most important stations on the Underground Railroad in Illinois. The Owen Lovejoy Home now belongs to the City of Princeton and was opened as a museum in 1972. The United States Secretary of the Interior declared the property a National Historic Landmark in 1997.

Also located on the Lovejoy Homestead property is the one room Colton Schoolhouse. It was moved from its original location 2.5 miles east to the Homestead in 1971.

J.J. M.

4/5

Very interesting historical site. Highly suggest you stop by during tour hours.

Teresa P.

5/5

Interesting place to visit.

Laura C.

5/5

A great historical tour to learn about Owen Lovejoy and how the underground railroad worked in Illinois!