It’s that time again!—Every two years, the Jacksonville Boosters Club presents its popular Home, Garden & History Tour, inviting the public visit to some of Jacksonville’s most fascinating properties. For 2014, the Home Tour will unlock the doors to three unique modern homes and four well-loved historic properties.
The modern homes are: the Danko House (680 S. Oregon Street), with its signature turret reminiscent of the Victorian era and beautifully designed hillside gardens; the striking Maple House (660 S. Oregon Street), highlighted by its delightful Storybook artist’s studio; and the Gracey House (430 Applegate Street, at S. Oregon), a very sophisticated remodel of an older home.
Step into the past at Old City Hall (corner of South Oregon and West Main Streets) and enjoy some insight into civic life in the 1880s, courtesy of hosts Mayor and Mrs. Becker. In the adjacent fire museum, some of Jacksonville’s finest firemen will talk about fighting blazes “way back when.” Plus you can spend time in the old “calaboose”—Jacksonville’s historic jailhouse!
St. Joseph’s Rectory
Visit St. Joseph’s Rectory (corner of 4th and C Streets), home of Father Blanchet, hero of the smallpox epidemic and parish priest for 25 years; then continue on C Street to the historic Turner House (120 North 5th). Home of pioneer newsman William Turner, this significant property now boasts an elaborate back garden landscaped by new owner Leslie Vidal.
A few steps away on North 5th is the star of the history show: the Jacksonville Courthouse. Tidied-up by the City, see how it may have looked just after its 1884 completion. Docents will show the original offices and upstairs, in the great courtroom, Judge and Mrs. Hanna will share stories about this fine old building. Complimentary light refreshments will be served there.
Tours will take place on Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1, from noon to 5:00pm, with tickets available at the Visitors Information Center, North Oregon and C Streets beginning May 9. Admission is $14.50, unchanged from the last tour in 2012. Proceeds support Boosters’ community programs and projects in Jacksonville.
Posted May 6, 2014
Danko House