This site is the birthplace and long-time home of poet (Nicholas) Vachel Lindsay. Lindsay was internationally known in the early-twentieth century for his unique poetry, the artwork he created to illustrate the poetry, and animated performances of his work. Two of his best-known volumes are The Congo (1914) and Collected Poems (1938).

The Vachel Lindsay Home, located just south of the Illinois Executive Mansion, is a two-story frame structure erected prior to the Civil War. Lindsay’s father purchased the house in 1878 and in 1893 constructed a rear addition to the original L-shaped building. The first floor contains an entry hall, two parlors, library, dining room, kitchen, bathroom, and pantry. The second floor comprises a central hall, sewing room, five bedrooms, bathroom, and trunk room. In 1971 the home was designated a National Historic Landmark and in 1972 was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors receive conducted tours of the Home, emphasizing Lindsay’s poetry and art.