Belvedere Mansion, Illinois, United States

4WImom 5:00 PM Sep 19, 2020

Historical house
Guide gave great tour and kept social distance, wearing a mask. There were only four people in our tour so were easily able to maintain social distance. It appears that tours are started when people arrive as there is no set tour schedule. Guide gave a lot of historical details as the owner, Mr. Jones, was good friends with both Lincoln and Grant, even serving as one of Lincoln's pallbearers. Many items are of interest-Pope's chair, Tiffany chandelier, Gone with the Wind curtains, etc. House cluttered with so many belongings but still very interesting. Could not see the top floor due to Covid restrictions -unable to keep social distancing. Photos are not allowed. Really don't understand the reasoning for that. Joint ticket for Dowling House and Belvedere House can be bought here for $20 which saves a few bucks. Gardens weren't in full bloom.

4dmkrusito 5:00 PM Aug 10, 2021

A prized antique collection!
The tour is not long 1/2hr to 45 min w/ questions. There are not a lot of original pieces here, but what they have is an amazing collection of valuable antiques. The original curtains from " Gone with the Wind" , many items from Liberace', an absolutely gorgeous Tiffany chandelier w/ 4 accompanying ceiling lights that resemble grape clusters that is valued at 1 million dollars. An entire religious art collection donated- they don't know much history about these, but they're beautiful. Beautiful hand carved grandfather clocks, 2 wing chairs that JFK, & RFK sat in....so much antique eye candy! You are not at this time, allowed onto the 3rd floor, hopefully that will change as they expand. It is always interesting to find out how the help was treated by the rich. You hope they were treated well, not always true. i've read on other reviews that this is private owned, & the fee goes directly to the owner... not to the town, or historical society. Fun to see though.