Bloomington Historical Houses Walking Tour (Self Guided), Bloomington

The Ziegler House is the main house of the Grant Street Inn, a renowned boutique establishment known for its distinctive Queen Anne architectural style. Built in 1883, the Ziegler House stands as a testament to Bloomington's rich history and architectural heritage. Its striking Queen Anne features, including white gingerbread trim, peaked roofs, gables, second-floor balconies, and a large colonnaded wraparound porch, exude charm and character that captivate visitors from near and far.

Stepping inside the Ziegler House, guests are greeted with a blend of old-world elegance and modern comfort. The inn's original burnished hardwood trim, parquet flooring, hand-carved rosettes, and mosaic fireplace reflect the craftsmanship and attention to detail of its era. Large windows, including an oversized antique wood front door, flood the interior with natural light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Cozy nooks adorned with comfortable furniture, high-quality antiques, and a stately brass chandelier invite guests to relax and unwind in style.

As one of Bloomington's signature boutique establishments, the Grant Street Inn offers a unique and memorable lodging experience. Whether guests are seeking a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat, or a convenient home base for exploring the vibrant city of Bloomington, the Ziegler House provides a welcoming haven where past meets present in perfect harmony.

The Millen-Chase-McCalla House stands as a testament to the city's rich history, with its origins dating back to the early 19th century. The house emerged in three distinct phases, each contributing to its unique architectural character. The first phase occurred in 1844 when William and Elizabeth Millen built the original "I House" on the property. In 1854, Aaron Chase constructed a connecting main house, giving the historic home its current L-shaped layout. The final phase took place in 1871 when John McCalla and his family conducted renovations, incorporating Greek Revival and Italianate-style elements into the design.

However, the property's history extends even further back, tracing its roots to Monroe County's founding in 1818. Notably, the land was once owned by James Whitcomb, a prominent figure in Indiana's political landscape. Whitcomb's legacy includes serving as Monroe County's prosecuting attorney, an Indiana Senator, Governor of Indiana, and a U.S. Senator. His tenure on the property paved the way for its eventual division, with the southern half evolving into the site where the historic L-shaped house would later stand.

Today, the Millen-Chase-McCalla House serves as the location for Topo's 403, a beloved restaurant owned by the Topolgus family. Despite its storied past, many locals affectionately refer to the house as The Topolgus Building, honoring the family's longstanding connection to Bloomington. The Topolgus family's ties to the community date back to Dr. James N. Topolgus, who immigrated to America in 1913 and became one of the first graduates of the Indiana University School of Medicine's obstetrics and gynecological department.

Built in 1890, the Morgan House exemplifies the Queen Anne architectural style and was designed by the renowned architect George Franklin Barber. Adorned with intricate wooden details and painted in a striking yellow hue, the Morgan House is a quintessential representation of the era's architectural aesthetics.

Over time, the Morgan House faced a period of neglect, with its condition deteriorating by the late 20th century. The property became the residence of an elderly woman who struggled to maintain it properly. Recognizing the historical significance of the house, Bloomington Restorations intervened and acquired the property. Subsequently, a large-scale rehabilitation project was undertaken, aiming to restore the house to its former grandeur.

Today, the Morgan House serves a different purpose, having been transformed into offices for various small companies. Among its occupants are a law firm and a chiropractor, each contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the historic residence. Despite its transition from a residential to a commercial space, the Morgan House continues to hold significance as a landmark of Bloomington's architectural heritage. Its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 and subsequent designation within the North Washington Street Historic District further underscore its importance in preserving the city's rich history and cultural identity.

The Farmer House Museum, nestled within an historic 1869 residence, stands as a testament to preserving and interpreting family life in Monroe County. With a mission to foster a dialogue with the past, the museum aims to inspire the public to appreciate and understand the human experiences that have shaped the local community over time. Through immersive tours of the meticulously preserved private residence, visitors are transported back to the early to mid-20th century, gaining insights into the daily lives of Bloomington residents during that era.

Equipped with original furniture, clothing, and household items, the Farmer House Museum offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of domestic life in Bloomington, Indiana. Each artifact and exhibit serves as a window into the past, allowing visitors to connect with the traditions, values, and challenges of earlier generations. Whether exploring the cozy living spaces, perusing vintage clothing collections, or marveling at period-specific furnishings, guests are invited to embark on a journey of discovery through time.

Founded as a non-profit museum, the Farmer House Museum is a labor of love dedicated to preserving local history and heritage for future generations. The museum's origins trace back to 1999 when Mary Ellen Farmer generously bequeathed her property and possessions to the Bloomington community, envisioning a museum of living history that would celebrate the everyday experiences of yesteryears.

The Woodburn House boasts a rich history spanning more than 175 years. Originally constructed in 1829 by Samuel Hardesty, the house comprised two rooms, each equipped with a fireplace, along with a frame lean-to addition and a kitchen situated behind. In 1855, Professor James Woodburn acquired the entire block for $1,100, initiating a transformative chapter in the house's evolution. Under Woodburn's ownership, the house underwent significant expansion and enhancement, culminating in its present structure by 1858, which included enlargements and the addition of a second story.

Throughout its storied history, the Woodburn House served as a hub for various social and academic activities. Following Professor Woodburn's passing in 1865, his widow opened the house to student boarders, establishing a vibrant community within its walls. Notably, during this period, the house witnessed the organization of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and the emergence of an underground student newspaper known as The Dagger. Subsequently, esteemed faculty members, including William Lowe Bryan and Amos Hershey, resided in the house, further enriching its legacy as an academic enclave.

In the early 1900s, Professor James A. Woodburn concluded the era of boarding house accommodations when he and his family took up residence in the house, fostering an environment conducive to scholarly pursuits. This tradition continued with the tenure of Dr. Herman B Wells, who resided in the house until 1957. During his occupancy, Dr. Wells presented the property to Indiana University, cementing its status as an integral part of the university's heritage. Over the years, subsequent occupants, such as the Joseph Franklin and Thomas Cosgrave families, contributed to the ongoing narrative of the Woodburn House, preserving its historical significance for future generations.

The Cochran–Helton–Lindley House, alternatively known as the Helton–Lindley House and James Cochran House, stands as a testament to Bloomington's rich architectural heritage. Constructed between 1849 and 1850, this historic home exemplifies the Greek Revival style, characterized by its symmetrical design and classical elements. The two-story dwelling features a distinctive L-shaped layout, comprising five bays and adorned with elegant brickwork.

Upon approaching the Cochran–Helton–Lindley House, visitors are greeted by a grand main entrance framed by a transom and sidelights, lending an air of sophistication to the exterior. The porch, adorned with square columns and pilasters, further enhances the architectural charm, inviting exploration and appreciation of its timeless elegance. Additionally, a two-story rear ell, accompanied by an enclosed porch, adds depth and character to the overall structure, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail prevalent throughout the design.

Throughout its storied existence, the Cochran–Helton–Lindley House has witnessed significant historical events and notable occupants. Notably, it served as the residence of Indiana Governor Paris Dunning during the years 1869 to 1870, adding a layer of political significance to its distinguished legacy. Recognizing its architectural and historical significance, the house underwent a meticulous renovation in 1976, ensuring the preservation of its heritage for future generations to admire and appreciate. In 1979, the Cochran–Helton–Lindley House was rightfully recognized and honored with a listing on the National Register of Historic Places, solidifying its status as a cherished landmark within the Bloomington West Side Historic District.

The Elias Abel House stands as a testament to the rich architectural heritage of Bloomington,showcasing the elegant simplicity of the Greek Revival style. Constructed in 1845, this historic building once served as the grand residence of one of Bloomington's prominent citizens, reflecting the sophistication and prosperity of the era. Despite facing years of neglect and the threat of demolition, meticulous restoration efforts have ensured its preservation as a cherished historic site, celebrated for its authentic period architecture.

Exemplifying the classic "I-house" design prevalent in Monroe County during the mid-nineteenth century, the Elias Abel House features a symmetrical layout characterized by two stories, each divided into two rooms. This architectural plan, favored by early settlers for its simplicity and elegance, remains a hallmark of the region's vernacular architecture. Notably, the Abel House is hailed as Bloomington's finest extant "I"-house, offering a glimpse into the architectural legacy of the area's pioneering residents.

The structural elements of the Elias Abel House epitomize the craftsmanship and attention to detail characteristic of the Greek Revival style. From its composite pitched roof and wooden eaves to its sturdy limestone basement walls and brick chimneys, the house boasts a blend of durability and aesthetic appeal.

Upon entering the Elias Abel House, visitors are greeted by a central main entrance flanked by windows and adorned with original transoms, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of its bygone era. Inside, the house boasts a wealth of original features, including hand-planed cherry wood railings, balusters, and staircase steps, along with a meticulously crafted mantel adorning the main fireplace.

Originally constructed in the 1820s as a farmhouse, the Blair–Dunning House has evolved over the years to become one of the city's most prominent houses. Nestled within one of Bloomington's neighborhoods, the Blair–Dunning House holds significant historical significance, once serving as the residence of the Governor of Indiana.

The original structure of the Blair–Dunning House features a rectangular brick design with a stone foundation, boasting two stories and a gabled roof. Notable architectural elements include large rectangular double-hung windows with limestone sills and lintels, a frieze with cornice, and corbelled chimneys on both ends. The house seamlessly blends elements of the Greek Revival and Federal styles, reflecting the prevailing architectural trends of its time.

Over the years, the Blair–Dunning House has undergone expansions and modifications, nearly doubling in size with the addition of wings on both the northern and southern sides in the late 1860s. These single-story additions mirror the original structure's design, featuring brick walls, gabled roofs, and stone window sills and lintels. Inside, the house exudes a sense of elegance and grandeur, with distinctive features such as 18-inch tall baseboards, fireplaces in every room with massive mantels, and lofty ceilings reaching 11 feet in height.

Recognized as one of Bloomington's most significant historic sites, the Blair–Dunning House was designated as a historic site by the city of Bloomington in 1979.

The Wylie House Museum stands as a testament to the rich history of the region, particularly its connection to Indiana University's founding figures. Constructed in 1835, the house served as the residence of Andrew Wylie, the inaugural president of Indiana University, until his passing in 1851.

Operated as a historic house museum by the Indiana University Libraries, the Wylie House Museum endeavors to preserve and interpret the legacy of the families who once resided within its walls. By showcasing the domestic life of the Wylie family and their contemporaries, the museum provides visitors with a captivating glimpse into the past, offering a tangible connection to the cultural and social milieu of the mid-19th century. The meticulous restoration and furnishing of the house, guided by an inventory dating back to 1859, ensure an authentic and immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the domestic surroundings of a bygone era.

Today, the Wylie House Museum stands as a living testament to Bloomington's rich heritage and the enduring legacy of Indiana University's founding figures. By preserving the architectural integrity and historical authenticity of the house, the museum offers an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and history enthusiasts alike. Through guided tours, educational programs, and special events, the Wylie House Museum continues to educate and inspire visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for the people and events that have shaped Bloomington's past and present.