Benton House, Second Empire mansion in Irvington, Indianapolis, US
Benton House is a brick residence built in the Second Empire style with a distinctive mansard roof and tower entrance, containing twelve rooms with oak flooring and ornate woodwork. The interior showcases craftsmanship throughout, featuring detailed trim and finishes that reflect the elevated construction standards of its era.
Built in 1873, the house originally belonged to Allen R. Benton, who served two terms as president of Butler University when it was known as North Western Christian University. His leadership role at the institution connected this residence to the development of higher education in the region.
The house is managed by the Irvington Historic Landmarks Foundation and serves as a gathering place for community events and social occasions. Visitors can see how the spaces were designed for entertaining and hosting important local gatherings.
The house includes modern amenities such as restrooms, heating, and air conditioning for visitor comfort. Access is available for groups and individuals interested in using the spaces for private events and foundation meetings.
This is the only National Register property in its neighborhood that opens to the public, offering rare access to how a prominent 19th-century family lived. Its preservation and continued use as a foundation center makes it an uncommon example of residential history being kept alive in the city.
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