Governor Duncan Mansion
4 Duncan Place, Jacksonville, IL 62650
Historic Sites
This home served as the official executive mansion for the State of Illinois from 1834-1838. Today, the home is owned and operated by the Rev. James Caldwell Chapter NSDAR.
Governor Joseph Duncan, who served as governor of Illinois from 1834 to 1838, had this two-and one-half-story house constructed between 1833 and 1835. The home served as the official executive mansion for the state of Illinois and was used for State business during the term of Governor Joseph Duncan. This three-story, 17-room mansion was built in 1834. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, and houses many of the original Duncan family furnishings.
Tradition says that Lincoln visited the Duncan home, and it is quite possible that happened, given the fact that Lincoln lived in nearby New Salem and Springfield during the time both men were members of the Whig Party. Lincoln served his first two terms as a state representative while Duncan was governor. In addition, voting records show that Lincoln cast ballots for Duncan three times.
Duncan Mansion's winter hours are by appointment only.
Images
More Information
- Mon: Closed
- Tue: Closed
- Wed: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
- Thu: Closed
- Fri: Closed
- Sat: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
- Sun: Closed
Holiday Hours:
Closed for season. Open by oppointment only.
Suggested donation.
How to find us?
What's happening nearby...
Xtreme Outlaw Midget Showdown in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Speedway • Oct 03 – Oct 04
Watch the last races of the Xtreme Outlaw Midgets season in Jacksonville over the weekend of October 3rd and 4th.
Read more about Xtreme Outlaw Midget Showdown in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Illinois 200th Finale
Central Park Plaza • Oct 04 @ 10AM
Join us in Downtown Jacksonville on October 4, 2025, for the Bicentennial Finale! Enjoy a drone show, concert by Resurrection – A Journey Tribute Band, trolley…
Read more about Jacksonville Illinois 200th Finale
Underground Railroad Fall Bus Tour
Woodlawn Farm • Oct 05 @ 1PM
Dressed in historical attire, the Storyteller Tour Guides will bring the underground railroad stories to life! Book your tickets in advance before it's sold out, $25…
Read more about Underground Railroad Fall Bus TourYou might also be interested...
Charters of Freedom Monuments
Jacksonville
Visit the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights in Jacksonville!
Read more about Charters of Freedom Monuments
Woodlawn Farm - Underground Railroad Site
Jacksonville
Take a tour of this interpretive site that served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
Read more about Woodlawn Farm - Underground Railroad Site
Jacksonville Historic Homes Walking Tour
Jacksonville
Take a stroll through Jacksonville and view its historic homes.
Read more about Jacksonville Historic Homes Walking Tour