Ellwood House

The Ellwood House, nestled in the heart of DeKalb, Illinois, stands as a testament to the opulence and architectural grandeur of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This magnificent mansion, built by barbed wire magnate Isaac Ellwood in 1879, offers a captivating glimpse into the life of one of DeKalb's most influential families. With its rich history, eclectic architectural styles, and beautifully manicured grounds, the Ellwood House is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of Ellwood House

The story of Ellwood House begins in 1879 when Isaac Ellwood, a prominent figure in the barbed wire industry, commissioned Chicago architect George O. Garnsey to design a grand residence. The original mansion, with its Victorian design elements, cost between $40,000 and $50,000—a substantial sum at the time. The house featured a striking mansard roof, Gothic columns, pitched gables, and intricate cast iron roof cresting, making it an architectural marvel.

Isaac Ellwood was known for his lavish dinner parties, which attracted notable guests, including Theodore Roosevelt, who dined there while campaigning for Vice President in 1900. The dining room also hosted U.S. Senators and state governors, adding to the home's historical significance.

In 1910, Isaac Ellwood passed the estate to his son, Perry Ellwood, who undertook extensive remodeling to reflect more contemporary architectural styles. The renovations included the addition of a portico, porte-cochere, and a semicircular bay in the dining room. Perry's alterations gave the mansion its current appearance, blending Georgian and Colonial Revival elements with the original Victorian design.

During World War II, Perry's wife, May Ellwood, made further changes to the house to conserve fuel. The upper floors were closed off, and the library was converted into a guest room. After Perry's death in 1943, the house remained in the family until 1964 when it was donated to the city of DeKalb and converted into a museum. In 1975, the Ellwood House was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Exploring Ellwood House

Visitors to Ellwood House are treated to a journey through time, exploring the various architectural styles and historical artifacts that define this grand residence. The mansion's exterior is a blend of Victorian, Georgian, and Colonial Revival elements. The three-story brick house features a full elevated basement, a mansard roof with gabled dormers, and corbeled chimneys. The original slate roofing and intricate ironwork add to the home's charm.

The front facade, altered during Perry Ellwood's renovations, now boasts a grand portico supported by granite columns. The porte-cochere, originally on the south side, was relocated to the north facade, while a large brick terrace and sunroom were added to the south side. These changes created a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, perfect for entertaining guests.

The Interior of Ellwood House

The interior of Ellwood House is equally impressive, with each room offering a unique glimpse into the past. The grand entry parlor, now known as the library, features a carved Italian marble mantle and a large gilt mirror. The mahogany bookshelves, cast in a Neo-Italian Renaissance style, are filled with books bearing the Ellwood family nameplates. An 1890s French statue near the library window adds a touch of elegance to the room.

The dining room underwent significant remodeling in 1898 to reflect Isaac Ellwood's rise to national prominence. The room was enlarged with a semicircular bay and adorned with Georgian Revival elements, including mahogany paneling, dentil molding, and a cornice with Classical details. The custom-made furniture by Tobey & Company of Chicago, including the main dining table with twelve extra leaves, showcases the opulence of the era.

Perry Ellwood's 1911 renovations created a spacious living room by removing a wall between two smaller rooms and adding a vaulted ceiling. The living room, designed to reflect English country houses of the 1650s, features a pargework ceiling with a geometric theme and a large Caen stone fireplace. The adjacent sunroom and south terrace, accessible through French doors, provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The Grounds and Additional Structures

The Ellwood House Museum site includes six additional structures that enhance the visitor experience. A 50-foot-tall water tower dominates the west side of the property, while a 14-foot-tall miniature Stick style house adds a whimsical touch. The Visitor Center, built as an addition to Perry Ellwood's original garage, and a museum house that once held Harriet Ellwood's collection of curiosities, offer further insights into the family's history.

The property also includes the Ellwood-Nehring House, a wedding gift to Perry and May Ellwood in 1898. This house remained privately owned until 2011, adding another layer of historical significance to the estate.

In conclusion, the Ellwood House in DeKalb, Illinois, is more than just a historic mansion; it is a living testament to the rich history and architectural evolution of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With its blend of Victorian, Georgian, and Colonial Revival elements, beautifully preserved interiors, and picturesque grounds, the Ellwood House offers a captivating experience for all who visit. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and charming destination, the Ellwood House is sure to leave a lasting impression.