Jones House (Pontiac, Illinois) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Jones House
|
|
 |
|
| Location | Pontiac, Illinois, United States |
|---|---|
| Built | 1857-58 |
| Architect | John Dehner (builder) |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 78001163 |
| Added to NRHP | May 5, 1978 |
The Jones House is a very old brick home located in Pontiac, Illinois. This special house is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It is also the second oldest brick house ever built in Pontiac.
Contents
Discovering the Jones House History
The Jones House was built a long time ago, between 1857 and 1858. A man named John Dehner, who was important in Pontiac, built it. He also had a part in the Chicago and Paducah Railroad. John Dehner bought the land for the house in 1857. When the house was finished in 1858, it was valued at $366.
Who Lived in the Jones House?
The house is named after Henry C. Jones, who bought it in 1899. Mr. Jones worked in the newspaper business. Later, he started and led the Pontiac Light, Heat and Power Company. He lived in the house until he passed away in 1921. After that, the house stayed with members of the Jones family.
Saving the Jones House
In 1975, the house was damaged by a fire. But don't worry, it was saved! In 1976, the Livingston County Historical Society bought the property. This group still owns the house today. You can visit the Jones House by making an appointment, and it is also used for special events.
Exploring the Jones House Architecture
The Jones House is a great example of Gothic Revival architecture in the area. It is made of brick and sits on a strong limestone foundation. The house has steep gables, which are the triangular parts of the roof. It also has unique pointed arch windows. These features make it stand out in Pontiac.
Original Design and Restoration
When it was first built, the house had a porch. Its roof was covered with wooden shingles. After the historical society bought the house, they carefully fixed it up. They made sure to keep its original architectural style.
Why the Jones House is Important
The Jones House is very important because of its architecture. It is a wonderful local example of the Gothic Revival style. Only one other brick home was finished in Pontiac before the Jones House was built in 1857–58.
Important People and Its Place in History
Besides its unique design, the house also played a role in local history. John Dehner, who built it, lived there. Later, Henry C. Jones, another important early citizen of Pontiac, made it his home. Mr. Jones was a newspaper publisher and started the Pontiac Light, Heat and Power Company. Because of its special architecture and its connection to these important people, the Jones House was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 5, 1978.
See also
