Eugene V. Debs Home facts for kids
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Eugene V. Debs House
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Southwest view
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 Location in Vigo County, Indiana
Location in Indiana
Location in the United States
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| Location | 451 N. 8th St., Terre Haute, Indiana |
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| Built | 1890 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000008 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 13, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | November 13, 1966 |
The Eugene V. Debs House is a special old home in Terre Haute, Indiana. It's now on the campus of Indiana State University. This house was once the home of Eugene V. Debs, a famous union leader and someone who ran for president. In 1966, it was named a National Historic Landmark. Today, the Eugene V. Debs Foundation takes care of it as a museum, teaching people about Debs' life.
About Eugene V. Debs
Eugene V. Debs was an important person in American history. He was a leader who worked to improve conditions for workers. He also ran for president of the United States several times. Debs believed in fairness and helping everyone have a better life.
The Debs Family Home
Eugene V. Debs and his wife, Kate, built this two-story house in 1890. They built it after being married for five years. Many famous friends visited Debs at his home. These visitors included the poet James Whitcomb Riley and the writer Carl Sandburg. One room in the house is still called the Riley bedroom today. When Debs passed away in 1926, a special gathering was held at the house. About 5,000 people came to honor him.
Inside the House
The house still has many of its original features. You can see a beautiful blue porcelain tile fireplace. This fireplace was brought all the way from Italy. The dining room and parlor furniture are made of fancy mahogany wood. There is also a complete set of Haviland china dishes.
The house is also a museum. It holds many items that belonged to Debs. You can see parts of his personal library there. More of his books are kept across the street at the Indiana State University library. One room in the house has special murals. These murals show important moments from Debs' life.
A Historic Landmark
After Debs passed away, the house had a few different owners. One owner was a professor at Indiana State University. For a while, from 1948 to 1961, it was used as a Theta Chi fraternity house. It was also rented out as apartments for a short time.
In 1962, the Eugene V. Debs Foundation bought the house. This foundation still owns and cares for the house today. In 1965, the Indiana General Assembly made it an official Indiana historic site. The next year, in 1966, the home became an official National Historic Landmark. This means it is a very important place in the history of the United States. The National Park Service helps to make sure the property is preserved.
See also
