Welcome to the Ellwood House, a National Register historic site located in DeKalb, Illinois. Given to the DeKalb Park District in 1964 by Mrs. Erwin Perry Ellwood and her three children, the property is operated as a museum by the not-for-profit Ellwood House Association.

The story of the Ellwood House reflects the central role of Isaac Ellwood in the development of the barbed wire industry in America. The magnificent estate is also a testimony to three generations of the Ellwood family whose tastes shaped the evolution of the house and grounds.

 

As you visit Ellwood House you will be aware of the comfort and quality of workmanship that wealth could provide. At the same time, you also sense the warmth and hospitality of a family home that was lived in for almost one hundred years.

Operated by the not-for-profit Ellwood House Association

in conjunction with the DeKalb Park District.  



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Volunteer Docent Training at Ellwood House Museum

Volunteers have been the backbone of the tour program at the Ellwood House Museum since its opening in 1967. Docents (or volunteer guides) relate the story of the Ellwood family and their Mansion, of barbed wire and of DeKalb for thousands of visitors every year.

Training sessions for new docents will start on February 16 at 6:30 PM and continue on February 23 and March 1 in the Museum’s Visitor Center Hearthside room. Sessions will cover information about the Ellwood Family, barbed wire fencing, the architecture and history of the Mansion and the mechanics of giving a tour.

For further information or to reserve a space please contact Donna Gable, Director of Visitor Services at the Ellwood House at 815-756-4609 or dgable@ellwoodhouse.org.

 

LEGO Show

April 21, 2012 1pm-3pm

Make your own architectural LEGO creation at home and bring the completed piece to enter into the Ellwood House LEGO Show.

Perhaps you can create your ideal home, your current home, the Sears (Willis) Tower, or a structure on the Ellwood estate. Any building you create can be entered and shared for the day.

 For more information contact Rebecca at rnickels@ellwoodhouse.org or call 815-756-4609. The following link contains the application form and drop of dates and times.

Sign up sheet

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