Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Dowling House

220 Diagonal Street, Galena, IL 61036

History Museums

Galena's oldest house, Dowling House, was built in 1826 by John Dowling.

Located at 220 Diagonal St. in historic downtown Galena, the Dowling House stands as the region’s oldest building, constructed in 1826 by Irish immigrant John Dowling.

Built of limestone and originally serving as the only trading post in the young town, this two-story frontier structure offers guided 30-minute tours (May–Oct.) showcasing original fireplaces, period furnishings and artifacts from Galena’s early lead-mining heyday.

Visitors say the experience is both intimate and memorable: “Our guide brought the stories of Galena’s pioneer days to life, a fantastic way to connect with the town’s roots.” - Gina M.

Images

More Information

  • Mon: Closed
  • Tue: Closed
  • Wed: 10:45am – 3:00pm
  • Thu: 10:45am – 3:00pm
  • Fri: 10:45am – 3:00pm
  • Sat: 12:00am – 2:45pm
  • Sun: Closed

Adults 12 years & older - $14.00
Children under 12 years - Free.

How to find us?

Back to Listings

What's happening nearby...

General Grant's Home Front Reenactment & Encampment

Depot Park  •  Apr 25 – Apr 26 @ 9AM

Experience life in the 1860s through a Living History Encampment and Civil War Battle.

Read more about General Grant's Home Front Reenactment & Encampment

The Haunted Galena Conference

DeSoto House Hotel •  May 01 – May 03 @ 4PM

Embrace the Darkness with Haunted Galena Tour Company at the haunted DeSoto House Hotel!

Read more about The Haunted Galena Conference

Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

Galena's Historic Main Street •  May 08 – May 10 @ 9:30AM

It's time to shake off the winter blues and welcome the warmth of spring with a shopping spree on Main Street! The merchants are clearing out…

Read more about Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

You might also be interested...

Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site

Galena

This Italianate home was presented to U.S. Grant in 1865.

Read more about Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site

Galena/Jo Daviess County Historical Society

Galena

Founded in 1938 and the home to the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum.

Read more about Galena/Jo Daviess County Historical Society

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.