Lincoln Colored Home

The Lincoln Colored Home is a two-story building in Springfield featuring original stained glass windows and architectural details salvaged from the Lawrence mansion. The structure showcases craftsmanship through its preserved elements and design features.

Eva Carroll Monroe founded this institution in 1898 as one of the earliest orphanages for African American children in the nation. The building was later adapted and expanded with materials from a neighboring property in the early 1900s.

This home served African American children and elderly residents when other Springfield institutions turned them away. It demonstrates how the community created its own solutions to care for those in need.

The home is located at the intersection of South 12th Street and is easily accessible on foot. Visitors should plan accordingly since it is a historical site with potential restrictions on entry.

Frank Lloyd Wright incorporated doors and chandeliers salvaged from the neighboring Lawrence property into the building's design. These repurposed components create a visible link to the surrounding neighborhood and reflect reuse practices common in that era.

Location: Illinois

Architects: Frank Lloyd Wright

GPS coordinates: 39.79760,-89.63970

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:20