Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

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: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
  • Fri: Closed
  • Sat: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
  • Sun: Closed

Suggested donation.

How to find us?

Back to Listings

What's happening nearby...

Morgan County Fair

Morgan County Fairgrounds  •  Jul 09 – Jul 14 @ 5PM

Get ready for the Morgan County Fair! Thrilling rides, livestock shows, delicious food, and live performances by Mitchell Tenpenny, Brantley Gilbert, and Matt Schuster make it…

Read more about Morgan County Fair

Morgan County Fair

Morgan County Fairgrounds •  Jul 09 – Jul 14 @ 8AM

Join Morgan County for a fun filled week of carnival rides, livestock shows, the demolition derby, tractor pulls, and live performances by hit Country Pop artists,…

Read more about Morgan County Fair

River County Quilt Show

Jacksonville High School •  Jul 26 – Jul 27 @ 10AM

Embark on a journey into a realm where the rich tapestry of tradition intertwines seamlessly with the flair of innovation. This show is a celebration of…

Read more about River County Quilt Show

You 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

Jacksonville Area Museum

Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Area Museum features the history of the Jacksonville Area with exhibits and original artifacts.

Read more about Jacksonville Area Museum

Jacksonville Historic Homes Walking Tour

Jacksonville

Take a stroll through Jacksonville and view its historic homes.

Read more about Jacksonville Historic Homes Walking Tour

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.