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Clarke House Museum
1827 S. Indiana Ave.
Chicago, IL 60616
Clarke House Museum
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DCASE Homepage > Clarke House Museum
Built in 1836 for Henry B. Clarke, the Clarke House Museum is Chicago’s oldest house. The house shows what life was like for a family in Chicago during the city’s formative years before the Civil War. Its fascinating history began at a time when Chicago received its city charter and much of the area was still undeveloped prairie.
Over the years, the house survived fires, belonged to a church, and was moved twice – during the second move, the house was stuck in the air for two weeks. The house is now located in the Chicago Women’s Park in the Prairie Avenue Historic District, and operated as a museum by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
Ticketed tours of this gracious Greek Revival style house are offered Wednesday through Sunday. Visit the Glessner House website for more information.
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Hours:
Clarke House Museum is open to the public for guided tours, Wednesday - Sunday at 12 Noon and 2 pm.
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Admission:
- Adults $10; seniors/students $9; children (ages 5-12) $6; children under 5 are FREE;
- Tours are limited to 12 visitors, and available on a first-come, first-served walk-in basis;
- Custom tours for groups of 10+ are available with at least 4 weeks advance reservation;
- Please contact 312.326.1480 for more information or to make a custom tour reservation;
- Tours are FREE on Wednesdays (not applicable to groups of ten or more).
- Tour both Clarke and Glessner House Museums and received discounted admission:
adults $15, seniors/students $12, children (ages 5–12) $8.
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Public Transportation:
For travel information visit www.transitchicago.com
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Partners:
The National Society of Colonial Dames in The State of Illinois (NSCDA‑IL)
The NSCDA‑IL has been involved in the Clarke House for since 1977. The organization has been a generous supporter over the years, funding programs, as well as the collection of period furnishing in the house. Headquartered in Washington D.C., The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America is dedicated to furthering an appreciation of our national heritage through historic preservation, patriotic service, and educational projects. The NSCDA is involved in nearly 100 historic homes across the country.
The Glessner House Museum
Neighboring Glessner House is a program partner for the Clarke House. The two museums co-sponsor holiday events, and the staff of Glessner House administers the docents and conducts public and group tours of Clarke House.
