Illinois: Washburne House
Galena Belles Help Keep Washburne House History Alive
GALENA, ILL. — For generations, visitors to Galena’s historic Elihu Benjamin Washburne House have stepped through its doors to learn about one of the city’s most influential citizens. Helping bring that history to life are members of the Galena Belles Questers #1304, many of whom have served as docents at the historic home for years.
Their volunteer service is more than a commitment to giving tours. It is part of the Galena Belles’ ongoing effort to preserve and share the community’s history for future generations.
Located at 908 Third Street, the Elihu Benjamin Washburne House, also known as the Washburne-Sheehan House, was built in 1844–45 for Elihu B. Washburne, a prominent Galena attorney and political figure. The 1½-story Greek Revival home reflects the prosperity and social standing Washburne achieved after moving to Galena in 1840 to practice law.
Washburne went on to represent Illinois in Congress during the Civil War and later served briefly as U.S. Secretary of State and as U.S. Minister to France under President Ulysses S. Grant. Grant, another prominent Galenian, was among Washburne’s close friends.
Washburne and his wife, Adele Gratiot Washburne, lived in the house until 1882, when they moved to Chicago. The home had been enlarged to its present size in 1859 while Washburne was serving in Congress. Following the Washburnes’ departure, the Sheehan family acquired the property and remained there until 1968, when the house was sold to the State of Illinois.
Today, the Washburne House is a declared Illinois State Historic Site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The home is administered by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and remains open to the public for guided tours.
For the Galena Belles Questers #1304, the house represents an important opportunity to put their preservation mission into action.
Over the years, numerous Galena Belles members have volunteered as docents, welcoming visitors and interpreting the home’s history. Through their time and knowledge, they help visitors understand not only Washburne’s remarkable career, but also the people, events and community that shaped 19th-century Galena.
Tours include the first floor and two second-floor bedrooms, with furnishings that reflect the life of a prosperous Midwestern professional during the mid-19th century. Special emphasis is placed on Washburne’s Civil War-era friendships with Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant.
The work of the Galena Belles demonstrates that historic preservation is not limited to maintaining buildings and collections. It also depends on people willing to tell the stories behind them. By serving as docents and promoting awareness of the Washburne House and its history, the Galena Belles are helping ensure that those stories remain part of the community’s living history.
The Washburne House stands as a tangible link to Galena’s important role in the political and social history of 19th-century America. Thanks in part to the dedication of organizations such as the Galena Belles Questers #1304, visitors can continue to walk through its rooms, hear its stories and gain a greater appreciation for the people who helped shape the nation.
The Galena Belles Questers #1304 also maintain a public Facebook page highlighting their activities involving the Washburne House and local history.
Elihu Benjamin Washburne House
908 Third St.
Galena, IL 61036
