Historic Gilded Age Victorian outside of Chicago hits the market for $490K

Fans of Gilded Age architecture will find much to like about this handsome 1885 Queen Anne Victorian located about 60 miles northwest of Chicago in suburban Marengo, Illinois.

Designed by notable architect George Garnsey, the five-bedroom mansion features a number of well-preserved, museum-like rooms boasting original stained glass windows, detailed pocket doors, and ornamental fireplaces.

Although the exterior could certainly use a fresh coat of paint, the 5,200-square-foot residence received a lot of work in recent years. The most prominent upgrade is the renovated kitchen with heated stone floors, marble counters, and contemporary appliances.

“The inside still has a couple of cosmetic things, but other than that it is very good shape—especially for a home this size,” listing agent Tom Krebsbach of Vintage Home Realty tells Curbed Chicago. The old structure’s walk-up attic plus a pair of semi-finished rooms could also be converted into more living space or even a bed and breakfast.

The historic Marengo mansion is currently seeking $490,000. The asking price, however, does not include the owner’s massive collection of Lucille Ball memorabilia. “The owner adores her,” added Krebsbach. “I wasn't sure about it at first, but I decided to include [the collection] in the photos for added interest.”