Just ring the bell! "Cigar smoke filled the air." With so much to care for, his mother left the boy behind in the charge of her This historic 22 room mansion is truly lavish, the largest and "most often visited" Italianate mansion in Galena for more than 33 years! It was considered by all as the "well developed center of trade." Your tour will begin after a short wait on the air conditioned grand Victorian wicker veranda. By 1857, married with family, he moved them into a "big Victorian mansion, styled in the fashionable manner of an Italian villa, which he had just At the tender age of 15, he set sail aboard a schooner, J. C. King, bound In their time, my grandfather, J. Russell Jones, the subject of this study, pursued a path which in places crossed that of Lincoln and was closely connected with that of Grant. "This house is truly a walk into the history of this great nation during the time leading up to, during and after the Civil War. Your tour will begin after a short wait on the air conditioned grand Victorian wicker veranda. However, the assassination brought speculation to a halt. Farmers Guest House is located in Galena in the Illinois Region. Breakfast was fabulous. Dining with the King of Belgium became the everyday. Take a tour of the Belvedere Mansion, United States to visit historic site in Galena. Galena Travel Guide Flights to Galena Belvedere Mansion Car Rentals Belvedere Mansion Vacations Illinois may have travel restrictions in place, including self-quarantine, due to COVID-19. Built in 1857 for J. Russell Jones, influential Civil War patriot. Four thousand first citizens of Chicago awaited him. supporters for Grant to run for President two years hence. Grant Park. It also had connections to St. Louis and the Galena developed as the largest steamboat hub on the Mississippi River north of St. Louis, Missouri. The Belvedere is an Italianate mansion built in 1857 and has been considered the finest mansion in Galena. With his wife, parents, two daughters and two sons, J. Russell, had a large home to manage and a large family to feed. Russell's age of two, the family moved on to Pecatonica, Illinois, up from the Rock River when his mother remarried. He feared bankruptcy might befall him as it appeared fees he collected as Marshal would be halted and he would be without income. Taking companionship of Judge Fleming of Rockford and Colonel Broadhead, J. Russell traveled by wagon to see his family before setting out for adventure in Galena. Being one of the most intact historic towns on the map today, Galena is home to the DeSoto home (where both Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas spoke on their political campaigns), Ulysses S. Grant’s home, the Belvidere Mansion, and the famous Helluva Half Mile. Come experience its majesty for yourself. This fine steamboat company operated "down the Galena River (then still known as the Fever In front, there is mor... We so enjoyed touring this beautiful house from a long gone era. South." time. The His family moved west to a little port town on Lake Erie in which set his future. Later, after some misfortune, the home itself would acquire the name. Galena-Jo Daviess County History Museum and Old Market House are also within 15 minutes. Undetered, J. Russell saw Inquire within about discounts offered. Jones "stood at the pinnacle of his career." The mansion is completely air conditioned. meaning to their time. Jones acted. expansion. Galena, IL 61036 CURRENTLY CLOSED UNTIL NEXT YEAR! River) the few miles to the Mississippi, and up that great artery of trade to Dubuque, Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Line's northern terminus. You are definitely made to feel at home. Taking the loan of an old The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens are open to the public from mid May to mid Popular attractions Belvedere Mansion and West Street Sculpture Park are located nearby. We are proud to be the stewards of his legacy. 1008 Park Avenue In 1855-56, Russell served as Alderman in the city council and Chairman of A TALE OF TWO CITIES and the destiny of crossing paths with the likes of Grant and Lincoln Once his father died, at J. be. The owner took time to sit with us at breakfast and talk. The Belvedere Gardens can be explored at your leisure. second term. Featuring free WiFi, Aldrich Guest House is set in Galena, 400 metres from Belvedere Mansion, and a 5 minute walk to Main Street. young man, Jones tenacity for business rewarded him with the finest luxuries that life can afford (including this Victorian mansion) as well as with tragedy." Belvedere Mansion is within a 2.3 miles radius of the venue. At a value of nearly $6 million dollars in 1886, the company was sold with rewards to investors George R. Jones continues: "Joseph Russell Jones was a son of two cities; of Galena first, and afterward of Chicago, the latter becoming the metropolis he had thought Galena would It is located on the east side of the Galena River, so you do have a great view of Galena and the river. J. Russell's vigourous support expressed wholeheartedly in numerous letters gave weight to all to friends with a Captain Grant, a West Point graduate and once a hero of the Mexican War who had fallen into hard times and had retreated to his father's business in Galena. Tours start about every 15 minutes. 815-777-0747. built on the east side of the River, now known as 'Belvedere'." Complementary full breakfast is available to all guests. J. Russell Jones was named Minister Resident of Situated in Galena, this historic vacation home is within a 10-minute walk of Belvedere Mansion, West Street Sculpture Park, and Washburne House Historic Site. In its day, fifteen large river boats could comfortably port at the Galena levee. Special pricing is available for groups. In the course of his duties, J. Russell seized upon two Galena lawyers (and neighbors) who saw Come experience its majesty for yourself. A brief history of the Belvedere Mansion Situated in Galena, this bed & breakfast is steps from Washburne House Historic Site and Belvedere Mansion. A large merchantile establishment owned by Benjamin H. Campbell finally You are always welcome! Known through the years as the Jones House, then the (Henry) Corwith House, and then the Johnson House, it is In the course of all of the proceedings and final judgement brother, Judge Dart. HIS LEGACY LIVES ON... Guided Tours. Main Street Tour w/ General Grant. In 1860, his election to the legislature from JoDaviess and Carroll Counties sent him to Springfield and at the tender age of 37, he became the Honorable J. Russell Jones. Jones remained a true friend to Eliuh Washburne, himself an honored General of the War and later "The firing on Fort Sumter brought an appeal from the President for a large volunteer army. Even though his support of Grant remained unwavering. family in Pecatonica, now known as Rockton. The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens are open to the public from mid May to mid By the time J. Russell returned to Chicago, his service to the President behind him, he occupied his days with some of his favorite customs acquired in Europe and the sojourn of his Upon arrival buying a hat with his only remaining dollar. Two years later, his pioneer spirit in hand, he rejoined the Stay at this historic vacation home in Galena. If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 30 hotels and other accommodations you’ll find within a mile. corner of the state" which derives its name from the lead mines, miners and prospectors residing there. Galena, Illinois 61036 Situated in Galena, Alice's Snyder House Bed and Breakfast features garden views and free WiFi, 300 metres from Belvedere Mansion and less than 1 km from Galena Historic District. education or affiliations of means. WIth readiness to take on all tasks, made for a grand impression. You are definitely made to feel at home. from the General's humble residence in Galena to the seat of power in the White House. She also gave us the history of the house. In the end his visits to Grant's Belvedere Mansion is located in a welcoming area of Galena known for its beautiful river views and golfing. 16 miles from the hotel guests will find Dubuque Regional airport. The mission of the Belvedere Mansion and Gardens is to engage the public in the history, tradition and ongoing preservation of the City of Galena and the mansion itself. He was instrumental in carrying support for Grant's campaign and triumph during the Civil War and Grant's eventual place as President of the United States. Becoming tight We wish you health and happiness always! Old Market House. Inquire within about discounts offered. Save on popular hotels near Belvedere Mansion, Galena: Browse Expedia's selection of 343 hotels and places to stay closest to Belvedere Mansion. Situated in Galena, Alice's Snyder House Bed and Breakfast features garden views and free WiFi, 300 metres from Belvedere Mansion and less than 1 km from Galena Historic District. "J. Russell Jones became a man of means and stature from humble beginnings to the Belvedere Mansion on the east side of the River and on to Washington and the cities of Europe without a formal You are always welcome! Governor Yates of Illinois to give their man a trial as Colonel of an Illinois regiment...after much needed persuasion, the Governor said, 'I will give him the 21st Illinois'. The likes of friendships with Washburne, Grant and Lincoln did not come without consequence. "This house is truly a walk into the history of this great nation during the time leading up to, during and after the Civil War. While visiting Russell played the best advocate (with encouragement and support) of Grant during the war campaign of Vicksburg, Jones happened to seize upon the opportunity to buy "a The Belvedere Mansion offers a guided tour about every fifteen minutes from late spring to late fall. Contact US to learn more! Just ring the bell! thought little of the profitering of cotton merchants and Jones bent to stay his fortune. 'moderate' amount of cotton for personal profit." Secretary of State throughout his life. Joseph Russell Jones ... Washburne House Historic Site, and Belvedere Mansion. of Johnson vs Jones, "Johnson succeeded to the ownership of the Jones mansion in Galena. His company grew and remained in tack through the devistation of the Chicago fire with minimal loses. His children would receive the finest educations in age, he was elected to the position of Secretary and Treasurer of the Galena and Minnesota Packet Line. November. Belgium as a foreign minister of the diplomatic service. Book now & save with no cancellation fee. You can read more about the Belvedere Mansion's builder, J. Russel Jones elsewhere on this site. Jones was appointed by President Title Belvedere Mansion, Galena, Illinois Contributor Names Highsmith, Carol M., 1946-, photographer Created / Published DeSoto House. "As early as 1866, Jones and Washburne apparently had been among those who promoted the name of Ulyesses S. Grant for The Belvedere has been considered the finest mansion in Galena since it was built in 1857. No reservations are necessary. Russell to become a leader in the party. the schools of Europe. The owner took time to sit with us at breakfast and talk. Don't miss this experience of a lifetime! The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens seems to me, of many individual careers, whose paths cross and recross, converge and in rare instances from a nexus out of which may come a giant figure, a Lincoln or a Grant, dominating and giving By now, the streets were filled with bicycles and an occasional horseless carriage. Lincoln called upon J. Russell Jones when he wished to Washburne by now, Minister at Paris, help span communications which helped both garner favor with the royal court. November. From US$ 137 /night Select Not available Guided Tours. friendships are the hallmarks of a life well spent. Dowling House. Location. President..." demonstation of the Blitzkrieg." Steeped in mid 19th century history, the Mansion and gardens offer a glimpse into a bygone age. Today, it is one of the finest mansions in Galena, Illinois. The Belvedere has been considered the finest mansion in Galena since it was built in 1857. Their communications are well documented and their seeds of friendship began in this very house. Russell, used to analyzing opportunities and still concerned over the recent loses in his personal family and treasure made his interest when the railroads took out the steamboat business. opportunities later in his life. The case eventually was dropped which set to motion a course of litigation against Washburne, Jones and others that lasted years. white horse from his cousin, selling some coon skins, he rode. He used this time to educate himself in language, art and literature. Get the Reviews, Ratings, location, contact details & timings The Belvedere Mansion & Gardens (OPEN from mid May to mid November). hold on till Grant had finally brought the "whole war" to "a successful finish." for a year old city at the foot of Lake Michigan, known as Chicago. His The downtown area consists of three successive tiers made up of Main, Bench and Prospect Streets. now appropriately called 'Belvedere' a name which the proud old home will doubtless remain." In the days of Lincoln's presidency, Jones received a telegram from President Lincoln asking that J. Russell pay him a visit in Washington to enlist his advice about the stirrings of Grant's Johnson and Sheean were life). Lincoln himself to the office of United States Marshals for the Northern District of Illinois just three weeks before the war broke out. sorry consequence after five years of upper court hearings for suit of wrongful imprisonment, eventually awarded damages to the defendants. who believed in its sale. ". From a 1909, leaving a will of 45 printed pages which his grandson admits in his writings, "in it he tried to foresee all eventualities" (which might just have been the tone and purpose of his entire The lessons of independence and self-reliance would serve him well later in life. Without an education, without influence or means, it took only eight years for him to accomplish his lofty goals. The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens, Galena, Illinois, is the finest and largest mansion in the city. Find cheap deals and discount rates that best fit your budget. Galena Belvedere Mansion and Gardens. 1008 Park Avenue. Old Blacksmith Shop. By 1863 J. Russell had gained control of the Chicago West Division Rail Company. The Belvedere is an Italianate mansion built in 1857 and has been considered the finest mansion in Galena. By tragic irony, May 24, 1869 was also the day Frank Jones, J. Russell Jones' younger son, drowned in the Pecatonica River, along with his companion, a nephew of Elihu B. 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