“Do right and fear no one.”Gustave Koerner

 

The restoration of Belleville’s historic Gustave Koerner home, on Mascoutah Avenue at Abend Street, will stand as a testament to one of Belleville’s most illustrious citizens. Koerner joined Abraham Lincoln, Horace Greeley and others who, fired by the passions of the times, came together to create the Republican Party in 1856. Koerner became a close Lincoln confidant, helped write the 1860 Republican Party platform, and helped manage Lincoln’s drive to the presidential nomination at the party’s convention. Koerner was an ardent anti-slavery proponent and, as a German emigre, played a key role in allying western America’s German population with the Union cause.

The Koerner House Restoration Committee, working with a team of consultants, has prepared a Historic Structure Report. Selective demolition of the structure’s modern components commenced in May 2005. Once complete, the home will be opened as a museum, where Koerner’s life and political career will be interpreted.

 

 

All photographs courtesy of Fever River Research
Please do not duplicate without permission.

 

 


Bird’s Eye View of the Gustave Koerner Home (Ruger 1867) prior to addition of the large bay window on the rear service wing.

Bird’s Eye View of the Gustave Koerner Home (Ruger 1867) prior to addition of the large bay window on the rear service wing.


Koerner Home circa 1890s

Koerner Home circa 1890s


 1889 Sanborn-Perris fire insurance map showing the Gustave Koerner House and associated house lot. Note pentagonal bay.

1889 Sanborn-Perris fire insurance map showing the Gustave Koerner House and associated house lot. Note pentagonal bay.

 

 

Stairway, second floor, original banister, existing wallpaper.

Stairway, second floor, original banister, existing wallpaper.


Southwest view

Southwest view

 

Sophie Engelmann, wife of Gustave Koerner

Sophie Engelmann, wife of Gustave Koerner


The Gustave Koerner House

200 Abend
Belleville, IL 62220

Support Our Efforts!

Restoring this important piece of Illinois history is a labor-intensive yet very worthwhile endeavor. Please consider donating any amount to help us preserve this important historical treasure.