Ruben M. Benjamin House

The Ruben M. Benjamin House is a two-story residential building with neoclassical design elements located in Bloomington, Illinois. The structure features a rectangular footprint with a distinctive circular window set in the gable wall of the upper level.

The house was built in 1856 by John L. Routt, who would later become Colorado's first governor. The property subsequently became the long-term home of lawyer Ruben M. Benjamin, who resided there for many decades.

The house displays the architectural conventions of its era through balanced window placement and decorative wooden details beneath the roofline. Visitors can observe how residential design followed established Classical principles during this period.

The house stands within the East Grove Street Historic District and maintains its original exterior. Visitors should note that this is a private residence and not open to the public for tours.

Abraham Lincoln served as the bar examiner for Ruben M. Benjamin in the year the house was completed. This connection links the residence to one of America's most significant historical figures.

Location: Illinois

Architects: John Long Routt

Architectural style: neoclassicism

GPS coordinates: 40.47806,-88.98639

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:42