John C. Blanchard House

The John C. Blanchard House is an Italianate mansion built from pink and brown sandstone with tall windows topped by semicircular hoods and a slate hipped roof. The exterior combines refined stonework with decorative wooden elements, creating a distinctive appearance from the street.

The house was built in 1879 as the residence of lawyer and politician John C. Blanchard, who lived there until 1905. It gained protection status when added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

The building serves as home to the Ionia County Historical Society Museum, where exhibits showcase local stories and help visitors connect with the region's past.

The site is typically open for visits on Sunday afternoons between Memorial Day and Labor Day, though private group tours can be arranged at other times throughout the year. Plan your visit accordingly and contact ahead if you have specific needs or a large group.

The mansion was built using locally quarried variegated sandstone from Ionia, giving it a distinctive appearance that reflects the region's natural resources. The heavy front doors feature ornate baroque-style wooden trim with twisted details that stand out as you approach the entrance.

Location: Ionia

Inception: 1879

Architectural style: Italianate architecture

Address: 253 East Main Street

GPS coordinates: 42.98278,-85.05778

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:43