Jacob Henry Mansion

Construction on Jacob Henry's Mansion started in 1873, and took
three years to complete. The three story Second Empire / Italian

Renaissance Mansion is the largest and best example of Renaissance

Architecture still standing in the State of Illinois. A master craftsman

from Germany and three cabinet makers fashioned the elaborate

interior. The interior features polished Walnut woodwork, and a solid

Walnut staircase. Each room has an ornately carved fireplace.

The forty room, 16,800 sq. ft. Mansion is a National Historic Landmark.

Jacob Henry was a wealthy railroad magnate who built railroads in
Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. Mr. Henry was also principal stockholder,

Director, and President of the Will County National Bank. In addition

to his vast real estate holdings Mr. Henry also owned an Insurance

company, an Opera House, a horse racing track, and a local quarry.

He was also a majority stockholder of the Joliet and Chicago Stone Co.

Mr. Henry also owned the Joliet Streetcar Railway Co. which brought

electric trolleys to the streets of Joliet. Jacob Henry was also a founding

member of the Republican Party of Illinois.