Inside the Benton House, a French Mansard-Style Beauty Built in 1873
The Benton House is a historic French Mansard-style home in Irvington, Indiana, built in 1873 by Nicholas Ohmer as a model residence. It became the home of Dr. Allen R. Benton, a former Butler University president, and later the Miller family before being sold to the Irvington Historic Landmarks Foundation in 1966 for preservation.
The house is known for its architectural features, including a rare hanging staircase and original elements like wooden shutters and etched glass doors, and it is now a landmark open to the public.
Key historical points:
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Construction (1873):Built by Nicholas Ohmer in Irvington, Indiana, as one of five envisioned model residences.
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The house is a notable example of this style.
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Residence of Dr. Benton (1880-1907):Became home to Dr. Allen R. Benton, who served two terms as president of Butler University, and his wife, Silence Benton.
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Ownership by the Miller family (1907-1966):After the Bentons, the home was purchased by Willis and Isabelle Miller and their family.
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Preservation (1966):Their son, Herschel Eugene Miller, sold the house to the Irvington Historic Landmarks Foundation, which continues to maintain it.
Architectural Significance
- Rare Hanging Staircase: The house features one of only two hanging staircases in the Indianapolis area.
- Original Details: Restoration efforts revealed and reinstalled original elements like wooden shutters, and the home maintains etched glass entry doors.
- Linteled Windows: The windows are another notable architectural feature.
Inside pictures
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