Visit Hill Forest in Aurora Indiana

On a river barefaced over searching the Ohio River, Hill forest Mansion strikes an alarming scene. Just as alarming is it's bright past. Listed on The National Register of Historic Places, in 1992 it was bestowed the account of getting appointed a National Historic Landmark appropriately agreement it on the aforementioned akin of bulge as Jefferson's Monticello.

Designed in 1853 by Isaiah Rogers, an architect, accepted as the ancestor of the avant-garde hotel; it reflected all the improvements to architectonics at the time. It was advised for Gaff and his ancestors who active it from 1855 until 1891.

Thomas Gaff was a native to Scotland. Afterwards advancing to the United States, he became authoritative in the paper milling and the metal works business. Along with his brother James they became proprieties in some added businesses, including a fine jewelry store,

They made profits in mining, farming, freeway and aqueduct construction, and grain works. They made the first ready made cereal for wide spread public consumption needing to send their milling and works products, Gaff brought a line of river boats.

During the Civil War they supplied the Union Army the steamboats, one of them the Forest Queen became the address for Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman and auspiciously rammed the Vicksburg blockade. Shipment and riverboats were momentous elements of the Gaff business enterprises and are in the styling of the home.

Although based on the Italian Renaissance architectural style, the two-story home's architecture echolike Gaff’ success in the shipment industry with its full-width foreground balustrade getting evocative of a steamboat's deck. Among its some grand appearance are Venetian Glass Windows, intricate moldings, a museum room, and an underground wine cellar.

The free standing stair case connects those at the ends of the Grand Salon was designed the grand stair cases on upscale riverboats of the time. Reportedly, the Gaff offspring already rode a pony up these stairs and out the rear door.

The home is accessible to the public.

213 FIFTH ST.

AURORA, INDIANA

OPEN FOR TOURS:

April 1 - December 30

Tuesday through Sunday, 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Closed Mondays

ADMISSION:

$5.00 - Adults & Students over age 13

$3.00 kids 7-13

Under 6 free