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The Clarkes

History of Clarke House

Architecture and Design

Mission, Purpose, and Vision

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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.

Learn more about this gracious Greek Revival style house and plan your visit today.

Hours:

Free Public Tours

• Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 1pm and 2:30pm
• One-hour guided tours
• Admission is FREE
• Tours are limited to 15 people, available on a first-come, first-served basis. For groups of 10 or more, please see below Private Group Tours.

Private Group Tours

• Private tours led by trained volunteer docents are offered by appointment, pending availability.
• Private tours of the house are designed for adults, 13 years and older, for groups of 10 or more.

Location:
1827 S. Indiana Ave.
Chicago, IL 60616

Admission:

Admission is FREE

Public Transportation:
For travel information visit www.transitchicago.com

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.