Franklin Square, nestled in the heart of Bloomington, Illinois, is a historical gem that offers a delightful blend of rich history, architectural beauty, and serene green spaces. This charming square, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is not only a testament to the city's past but also a vibrant part of its present. With its lush park, historic homes, and fascinating stories, Franklin Square is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Bloomington.
The story of Franklin Square dates back to April 26, 1856, when David Davis, William F. Flagg, and William H. Allin generously donated a 590-by-330-foot parcel of land to the city of Bloomington. Their vision was clear: this land was to be used as a place of public resort, pastime and recreation, for citizens and strangers forever. The city was tasked with the responsibility of improving and beautifying the park, with the stipulation that no buildings were to be erected on the square.
In 1869, a significant addition was made to Franklin Square in the form of a monument dedicated to the 700 McLean County citizens who lost their lives in the Civil War. This grand monument, commissioned to Haldeman Marble Works of Bloomington for $15,000, stood 49 feet high and featured a Lemont limestone base. The inscription on the monument read, McLean County’s Honored Sons: Fallen—but not Forgotten, accompanied by engravings of the names of the fallen soldiers. The monument was adorned with statues representing different branches of the military, including Infantry, Cavalry, Zouave, and Marine, and was topped with a life-size figure of a colonel atop an 18-foot shaft.
Over the years, the monument faced the ravages of time and began to deteriorate. A committee formed to address the issue noted that the materials used in the monument's construction were too perishable, leading to the near obliteration of the engraved names and the structural integrity of the monument being compromised. Former Governor Joseph Fifer advocated for the monument's demolition and the construction of a new one in Miller Park, Bloomington. Eventually, the lower half of the original monument was preserved and relocated to the Bloomington neighborhood of Briarwood.
Franklin Square is not only known for its historical significance but also for its stunning array of architectural styles. The homes surrounding the square were built from the mid-19th century through the early 20th century, showcasing a variety of styles, including Georgian Revival, Italianate, Colonial, Queen Anne, and Romanesque Revival. These homes were once the residences of many prominent citizens of Bloomington, attracting visits from notable figures such as Theodore Roosevelt, Ulysses S. Grant, Clarence Darrow, and Carl Sandburg.
Today, many of these historic homes are occupied by students from Illinois Wesleyan University, including members of the Alpha Lambda chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and the Sigma Alpha chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota. Among the notable houses in Franklin Square are:
Built in 1864 for Luman Burr by the Hayes & Evans Contracting Company, the Burr House is a splendid example of Italianate architecture. In the early 20th century, a Queen Anne-style gabled roof, left wing, and back wing were added, enhancing its charm. Today, the Burr House operates as a bed and breakfast, offering visitors a chance to experience its historic elegance firsthand.
This 1869 Italianate-style home, located at 903 N. McLean St., was initially built for William K. Dodson. Its second owner, Adlai E. Stevenson I, served as Vice President of the United States under President Grover Cleveland. The Dodson-Stevenson House stands as a testament to the area's rich political history.
The Fifer-Bohrer House, constructed in 1895 at 909 N. McLean St., is a beautiful blend of Georgian Revival and Queen Anne styles. This house was home to former Illinois Governor Joseph W. Fifer and his daughter Florence Fifer Bohrer, who made history as the first female senator from Illinois.
Commissioned by Marion Lee McClure, a farmer, landowner, and land speculator, the McClure House was designed by architect George Miller in 1906. Its Romanesque style was inspired by a house McClure admired in Chicago. Known as The Castle, this house features a third-floor ballroom and is a striking architectural landmark.
Built in 1882 in the Victorian-era Queen Anne style, the Lillard House at 302 Walnut St. was the residence of John T. Lillard, a prominent attorney in Bloomington. Lillard married Sarah Davis, the daughter of Judge David Davis, adding another layer of historical significance to this elegant home.
Franklin Square is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into Bloomington's past while providing a tranquil and picturesque setting for visitors. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, Franklin Square has something to offer. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, admire the beautifully preserved homes, and immerse yourself in the rich history that defines this charming historic district.
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