The Strevell House in Pontiac, Illinois is a fascinating glimpse into American history. Built by attorney Jason W. Strevell in 1855, it stands out as one of the few pre-Civil War homes still intact within the city. What makes this house truly remarkable is its connection to the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln.
Strevell and Lincoln were close friends, with the former often hosting the latter during his travels through the area. As a result, the Strevell House is the last remaining structure in Livingston County known to have hosted Lincoln himself, making it an essential piece of American history.
The Livingston County Historical Society recognized the importance of preserving this historical gem and spent ten years meticulously restoring the home to its original state from 2008 to 2018. This restoration process involved extensive research into both the houses history and the lives of those who once called it home, ensuring that every detail was as accurate as possible.
Today, the Strevell House stands tall as a testament to Pontiacs rich past, serving not only as an educational resource but also a symbol of the citys connection to Abraham Lincoln and its pivotal role in Americas early history. This captivating piece of architecture is more than just a house; its a window into our nations storied past.