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History, The Classic Beauty of this Irvington Treasure
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This home of native brick, elaborate with tower and
cupola, was built by Nicholas Ohmer in 1873, and no doubt was one
of five styles intended to be models for the community of Irvington.
However, the economic panic of the 1870's forced people to build
more modest homes on smaller lots.
The house is of French Mansard design with linteled
windows. The etched glass in the front doors and stairwell window
is a gift of reproduction which adds to the beauty of the entry.
The shutters were found in the crawlspace part of the basement.
The hanging staircase is one of the only two in the Indianapolis
area.
The house has been restored in the manor of
the period with reproduction wallpaper that is a replica of
circa 1900 paper which might have been used in the house while
it was owned by Dr. Benton and his wife, Silence. It served
as their home from 1880-1907.
Next on the house wish list is the furnishing
of the library. Recent projects have included carpet for the
stairs and new sidewalks. A major fundraising
campaign is currently underway for the restoration of the
slate roof which dates from the construction of the house.
The period chandeliers, ornaments and furnishings
were generously donated by friends of the Benton House and
create a quiet beauty of another era. A full time caretaker
is in residence for the maintenance and protection of the
property.
The house was purchased in 1966 by the Irvington
Historic Landmarks Foundation as a meeting place for area
clubs and can be used for private parties, wedding and retreats.
All proceeds from these events go toward the maintenance of
the Benton House and future renovations.
In 1973 the home was placed on the National
Register of Historic Places. The Benton House is also listed
as an Indiana Museum. It is the only house on the National
Register on the Indianapolis East Side listed in the Historic
Register that is available to the public. The mission of the
Irvington Historic Landmarks Foundation, Inc. and the Benton
House Association is to preserve this lovely, unique structure
for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
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