Near Kewanee in Henry County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

“Woodland Palace”

Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, January 1, 2023

1. “Woodland Palace” Marker

Inscription. This was the home of Fred Francis, inventor and innovator, artist and poet. Born near Kewanee in 1856, he graduated from the Illinois Industrial University, Urbana, in 1878. While there, he was one of the designers and builders of the 'Class of 78' clock, now in the north tower of the Illini Union. In this home, which he built, he incorporated many innovations, including a water purification system and air conditioning. Francis died in 1926 and bequeathed this estate to the City of Kewanee, to be maintained as a city park and museum.

Erected 1974 by Francis Park Foundation • The City of Kewanee • The Illinois State Historical Society.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Education. In addition, it is included in the Illinois State Historical Society series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1856.

Location. 41° 16.708′ N, 89° 51.583′ W. Marker is near Kewanee, Illinois, in Henry County. Marker is on North 900th Avenue, 0.1 miles west of County Road 00 East, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 29862 N 900th Ave, Kewanee IL 61443, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 5 other markers are within 15 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. The Great Sauk Trail (approx.

Paid Advertisement

Click on the ad for more information.
Please report objectionable advertising to the Editor.

Click or scan to see
this page online

3.3 miles away); Ryan Round Barn (approx. 3.6 miles away); Abraham Lincoln in Kewanee (approx. 4.2 miles away); Lincoln in Stark County (approx. 12.8 miles away); Fraker's Grove (approx. 14.1 miles away).

Also see . . .
1. Frederick Francis Woodland Palace (PDF). National Register of Historic Places nomination for the property, which was listed in 1975. (National Archives) (Submitted on January 8, 2023, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.)

2. Illinois Adventure #1801 "Woodland Palace". Using royalties from his inventions for the Elgin National Watch Co., Francis began building his retreat in 1889. He did so by himself and without using any plans. (Jim Wilheim, WTVP-TV, uploaded June 12, 2012) (Submitted on January 8, 2023, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.)

Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, January 1, 2023

2. “Woodland Palace” Marker

“Woodland Palace” (west end) image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, January 1, 2023

3. “Woodland Palace” (west end)

“Woodland Palace” (east end) image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, January 1, 2023

4. “Woodland Palace” (east end)

Credits. This page was last revised on January 8, 2023. It was originally submitted on January 8, 2023, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 130 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on January 8, 2023, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.