General Lew Wallace Study

The General Lew Wallace Study is a writing sanctuary in Crawfordsville built between 1895 and 1898, featuring Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements. The structure displays a copper dome roof and walls constructed from deep red brick.

The site was constructed shortly after the Civil War and served as a retreat for Union General Wallace to pursue his writing. It was here that he completed significant portions of his novel Ben-Hur, the work that brought him international acclaim.

The study reveals how Wallace surrounded himself with objects reflecting his passions for writing, art, and music in his personal workspace. Visitors can observe how a successful author of his era arranged and used his private creative space.

Visitors can explore the grounds during daylight hours, with guided tours available for the study building while the interpretive center and outdoor areas are freely accessible. Wearing comfortable walking shoes and allowing time for a thorough visit helps make the most of the experience.

The study features a hand-carved limestone frieze depicting characters from Wallace's literary works embedded within its design. These detailed carvings reveal how the author integrated his own creative characters directly into the physical space where he wrote.

Website: https://ben-hur.com

GPS coordinates: 40.04061,-86.89431

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:03