National Register of Historic Places listings in DeKalb County, Illinois facts for kids
Welcome to DeKalb County, Illinois! This page is all about the special places in the county that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Think of this register as a very important list of buildings, sites, and objects across the United States that are worth saving because of their history or special design.
These places are like treasures that tell us stories about the past. They could be old houses, schools, theaters, or even train stations. When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized as important for everyone to learn about and protect. In DeKalb County, there are 17 amazing places that have earned a spot on this special list!
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Exploring DeKalb County's Historic Gems
DeKalb County is full of interesting historic spots. Let's take a look at some of these cool places that have been recognized for their unique history and architecture.
Historic Homes and Mansions
Many of the buildings on the National Register are old homes that belonged to important people or show off interesting building styles from long ago.
Ellwood Mansion
The Ellwood Mansion is a grand old house located in DeKalb. It was built for Isaac Ellwood, who was a very successful businessman. He helped invent and sell barbed wire, which changed farming forever! This mansion was listed on the National Register in 1975. It's a great example of how people lived in the past and shows off beautiful architecture.
Joseph F. Glidden House
Also in DeKalb, you'll find the Joseph F. Glidden House. Joseph Glidden was another key figure in the history of barbed wire, working closely with Isaac Ellwood. His house was added to the register in 1973. It's interesting to see the homes of people who made such a big impact on history.
George H. Gurler House
The George H. Gurler House is another historic home in DeKalb, listed in 1979. George Gurler was important in the dairy industry. His house gives us a peek into the lives of prominent citizens from the late 1800s.
Adolphus W. Brower House
In Sycamore, the Adolphus W. Brower House was listed in 1979. This house is a good example of the architectural styles popular in the late 19th century.
William W. Marsh House
Also in Sycamore, the William W. Marsh House joined the list in 1978. It's another beautiful old home that tells a story about the town's past.
von KleinSmid Mansion
The von KleinSmid Mansion in Sandwich was added to the register in 1985. This impressive house stands out with its unique design and history in the community.
Public Buildings and Important Sites
Not all historic places are homes. Some are buildings that served the whole community or were important for transportation and education.
Egyptian Theatre
The Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb is a really cool place! It was built in 1929 and designed to look like an ancient Egyptian temple. It's one of only a few Egyptian-style theaters left in the United States. It was listed in 1978 and is still a popular spot for shows and movies today.
Chicago and Northwestern Depot
The Chicago and Northwestern Depot in Sycamore was once a busy train station. It was added to the register in 1978. Train depots were super important for travel and trade in the past, connecting towns and cities.
Haish Memorial Library
The Haish Memorial Library in DeKalb became a historic listing in 1980. Libraries are important places for learning and community, and this building has a rich history of serving the people of DeKalb.
Sandwich City Hall
The Sandwich City Hall was listed in 1979. City halls are often central to a town's history, as they are where local government decisions are made and community events happen.
North Grove School
The North Grove School in Sycamore was added to the register in 2012. This old schoolhouse gives us a glimpse into how children learned many years ago. It's a reminder of the importance of education throughout history.
Elmwood Cemetery Gates
Even gates can be historic! The Elmwood Cemetery Gates in Sycamore were listed in 1978. These gates are important because of their design and the history of the cemetery they guard.
Historic Districts and Farms
Sometimes, a whole area or a group of buildings is considered historic.
Sycamore Historic District
The Sycamore Historic District was recognized in 1978. This isn't just one building, but a whole section of Sycamore that has many historic buildings. Walking through it is like stepping back in time!
Nisbet Homestead Farm
The Nisbet Homestead Farm near Earlville was listed in 1984. Homestead farms are important because they show us how early settlers lived and farmed the land.
Former Listing
Sometimes, a place might be removed from the National Register. This usually happens if the building is changed too much or, sadly, if it's torn down.
US Post Office-DeKalb
The US Post Office-DeKalb was once on the list, added in 1995. However, it was later removed in 1996 because it was demolished in 1995. This shows us why it's so important to protect these historic places!
