Ashmore Estates

Ashmore Estates is a two-story brick building with Neo-Georgian architectural features, situated near a historic railroad crossing in rural Illinois. The structure displays early 20th-century construction methods and materials characteristic of institutional buildings from that era.

The facility was constructed in 1916 as a successor to the original Coles County Poor Farm and provided care for those in need until 1959. It represents a chapter in the region's approach to social support that spanned nearly half a century.

The property maintains records of 250 former residents from its early period, with a cemetery containing between 60 and 100 unmarked graves.

The property is privately owned and visitors should obtain permission from the current owners before visiting. Daytime visits work best for viewing the building's features and exploring the surrounding grounds safely.

A winter windstorm in January 2013 caused severe damage to the roof, prompting extensive restoration by later owners. The property also preserves records of roughly 250 former residents from its early years and maintains a cemetery with dozens of unmarked graves that speak to its long history.

Location: Illinois

Inception: September 1, 1916

GPS coordinates: 39.52900,-88.04980

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:31