John M. Hamilton House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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John M. Hamilton House
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | 502 S. Clayton St., Bloomington, Illinois |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1872 |
| NRHP reference No. | 78003110 |
| Added to NRHP | September 6, 1978 |
The John M. Hamilton House is a special old house located in Bloomington, Illinois. It's famous because John Marshall Hamilton, who later became the governor of Illinois, lived there for a time. This house helps us remember an important part of Illinois history.
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The Story of the John M. Hamilton House
This historic house was built around 1872. A fur trader named James Clark was the first owner. He built the house and then sold it to John M. Hamilton in 1873. The house is located at 502 South Clayton Street in Bloomington. It's a private home, meaning people live there today.
Who Was John M. Hamilton?
John Marshall Hamilton was an important person in Illinois politics. He was born in 1847 and grew up to become a lawyer and politician. His journey in state politics really began while he was living in this very house.
In 1876, while living at the house, John M. Hamilton was elected to the Illinois Senate. The Senate is a group of lawmakers who help create rules and laws for the state. He served in the Senate for four years. In 1879, his fellow lawmakers chose him to be the president pro tem, which is a leader within the Senate.
From Lieutenant Governor to Governor
In 1881, John M. Hamilton was elected lieutenant governor. Think of the lieutenant governor as the second-in-command to the governor. The governor at that time was Shelby Moore Cullom.
Something interesting happened next: Governor Cullom was chosen to become a U.S. Senator. When a governor leaves office, the lieutenant governor steps in to take their place. So, John M. Hamilton became the governor of Illinois in 1883! He served as governor until 1885. After he became governor, he moved away from Bloomington and never returned to live in the house.
Why Is This House Important?
The John M. Hamilton House is important because it connects us to a significant figure in Illinois's past. It's a reminder of where a future governor lived and started his political career.
Because of its history and connection to John M. Hamilton, the house was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 6, 1978. This means it's recognized as a special place that should be protected and remembered for its historical value.
