Historic Governor Duncan Mansion
When the Governor Duncan Mansion was offered to the chapter for
$11,000 in 1919, the decision was made to purchase it. The
seventeen-room mansion was built in 1833 as the residence of Joseph and
Elizabeth (Caldwell Smith) Duncan. It was the official governor's
mansion
during his term of office (1834-1838). It is the only standing
structure which served this capacity in Illinois outside of
Springfield. Ellen Hardin Walworth, one of the NSDAR founders, spent a
great deal of time in the mansion with the Duncan children.
(rear parlor)
The mansion is used as a meeting place and community center. It was
placed on the Register of National Historic Places in 1971. The walnut
stairway, which spans three stories, features short risers designed to
accommodate Mrs. Duncan's petite form--Mrs. Duncan was 4' 5" tall.
Furnishings include many original Duncan family pieces. During the
chapter's years of ownership, repairs and restoration have been
continuous. Docents in costumes give many tours for school children,
scouts, and other groups. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the
mansion is open on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons from 1-4 p.m.
(portrait of Governor Duncan)
(staircase in the mansion)
An old-fashioned ice cream social is held on the front lawn of the
mansion each year in August. The Community Band furnishes
entertainment for the evening. Recently the mansion was used to host a
special Flag Day ceremony honoring local citizens. The mansion has
become the focal point of Jacksonville's National Historic District.
Chapter members are proud to be the caretakers of this
beautiful and historic home. Information and tours can be
scheduled by contacting Susan Hardin.
