The Thomas Marshall House – A 1857 Civil War-Era Landmark

Step into the pages of American history at 218 Jackson Avenue. This stately, circa-1857 brick residence is a monumental piece of Charleston’s heritage. Built by Thomas Marshall—a prominent Illinois politician and direct descendant of U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Marshall—this home served as a social and political hub during the most transformative era in United States history.

Priced at an incredible $65,000, this 3,614-square-foot estate offers a rare “restoration-ready” opportunity to own a property that once hosted the 16th President of the United States.

Property Investment Profile

Price: $65,000 (An exceptional ~$18/sq. ft. value)
Living Area: 3,614 sq. ft.
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3 (1 Full, 2 Half)
Lot Size: 0.46 Acres
Year Built: 1857 (The height of the Antebellum period)

A Legacy of Leadership: Famous Residents & Guests

The Thomas Marshall House is steeped in a level of historical significance rarely found on the open market:

Abraham Lincoln Connection: Thomas Marshall was a close political ally of Abraham Lincoln. During his travels on the 8th Judicial Circuit and his 1858 Senatorial campaign, Lincoln is known to have visited this very home.
Gubernatorial Ties: The residence was later occupied by John P. St. John, who served as the Governor of Kansas and was the 1884 Prohibition Party candidate for President.
Prominent Stewards: For decades, the home was maintained by the Gerald Moore family and other civic leaders who preserved its architectural integrity.

Architectural Majesty & “Untouched” Detail

Unlike many homes of this age that have been stripped of their character, 218 Jackson Ave retains the soaring proportions and intricate details of the 1850s.

Grand Entryway: Ornate double doors open into a brick entry parlor, leading to a grand main staircase designed to impress 19th-century dignitaries.
Period Craftsmanship: The home features thick brick walls, cathedral ceilings, and original hardwood floors. Fine millwork, wainscoting, and elegant pocket doors define the living spaces.
Dual Staircases: In addition to the grand stairs, a secondary butler’s staircase provides access to the upper level and the expansive third-floor attic—an area ripe for conversion into a master loft or studio.
Fireplaces: Multiple original fireplaces remain throughout the home, serving as beautiful focal points in the formal parlor, living, and dining rooms.

Exterior Features: A Stately Presence

The curb appeal of this brick manor is defined by its rugged and refined materials:

Ornate Ironwork: A black iron fence with a gated entry encloses the front yard, while the porch features original wrought-iron railings.
Historic Driveway: A rare, intact brick driveway leads to the 0.46-acre lot.
Preservation Note: The windows and doors are currently boarded solely for protection and to prevent unauthorized access; they remain intact behind the boards, waiting for a restorer’s touch.

Investment Opportunity: Restore a Piece of Illinois History

While the property requires TLC and a full modernization of its systems, the “bones” are irreplaceable. At $65,000, the entry price allows for a significant restoration budget. This is a premier candidate for:

A Landmark Private Residence: Reclaim the home’s status as Charleston’s most prestigious manor.
A Boutique Historic Inn: Leverage the Lincoln connection to attract travelers along the Illinois Lincoln Excellence Trail.
Historical Grants: Buyers may explore federal or state historic preservation tax credits to help fund the revitalization.

Property Summary

From its vaulted ceilings to its connection to the Supreme Court and the White House, 218 Jackson Avenue is more than a home—it is a responsibility and a rare privilege. Bring your vision and become the next steward of the Thomas Marshall legacy.