Geneva, Illinois

Botanical Garden, History, Historic House

The Fabyan Villa was the home of Colonel George and Nelle Fabyan from 1905-1939. Riverbank, the name they bestowed upon their property, was initially a country retreat from their home in Chicago. They hired Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907 to enlarge and re-model the existing farmhouse and shortly thereafter took up permanent residence at the Villa, as they called their home. They acquired 300 acres, creating a country estate which soon became a lavish showplace complete with fountains, gardens, a Roman-style swimming pool, a Dutch-style windmill, a private zoo, a working lighthouse, a boathouse, tennis courts, and more. The Fabyans pursued their varied interests on their estate, including horticulture, animal husbandry, and scientific research.

Plano, Illinois

Art, Historic House

In the farmlands outside of Chicago, renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created a timeless masterpiece along the Fox River. Mies' vision of a modern shelter for the 20th Century, set in nature, is expressed with absolute purity and intensity. His serene steel and glass weekend retreat for Dr. Edith Farnsworth belies its controversial history and its dramatic rescue by civic groups. Meticulously restored and open to the public, it is an architectural pilgrimage site, attracting design professionals and house enthusiasts from around the world.

Quincy, Illinois

Culture, History, Historic House, Specialized

The Dr. Eells House is the oldest surviving brick home in Quincy, Illinois, built in 1835. It is most famous for its connection to the Underground Railroad, with a case against Dr. Eells that went through the court system that included Circuit Judge Stephen Douglas and all the way to the US Supreme Court. The House is an architectural site and showcases period furnishings.

Geneva, Illinois

Arboretum, Art, Botanical Garden, Children's, General, History, Historic House, Historical Society, Nature Centers, Park

When visiting the Villa Museum, you discover the Fabyans' uniquely fascinating legacy. The Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie-style house contains the Fabyans' private collection of Asian artifacts, natural history specimens, original furniture- just to name a few! The captivating combination of history, architecture, military intrigue, and personal exploration is designed to make the Fabyan Villa Museum a delight for persons of all ages and backgrounds.

Creve Coeur, Illinois

Culture, General, History, Historic House, Library, Park

Shirley, Illinois

Culture, History, Historic House, Science, Specialized

At the Funk Prairie Home Museum, our mission is to take you back in time to the good old days. We guarantee you'll find the tours fascinating and entertaining. We're proud of our educational and entertaining presentations and the preservation of the Funk Family legacy. The tours move along quickly, and time flies at the Prairie Home. The incredible stories of the early days of the Funk Family will leave you enthralled!