About

An exterior view of the Hegeler Carus Mansion, a National Historic Landmark, on a warm summer day in LaSalle, Illinois.

Completed in 1876, this stately Second Empire masterpiece is a National Landmark. Designed by W. W. Boyington, architect of the famous Chicago Water Tower, the structure remains virtually unaltered.

The Mansion, with its seven levels, fifty-seven rooms, and approximately 24,000 square feet, is as unique on the interior as it is on the exterior. The home boasts beautiful intricate parquet floors and hand painted ceilings, and ten beautifully carved fireplaces, of which several are marble.

The Hegeler Carus Mansion was also a site for historic accomplishments in industry, philosophy, publishing, and religion.

Visitors today experience the grandeur of a bygone era and the heritage of a fascinating family, whose history is woven tightly with the area, Illinois, the United States, and reaches across three continents.

Mission Statement

Provide exciting educational and cultural activities centered around the history of the Hegeler Carus Mansion, preserving its legacy and inspiring continued outreach and restoration.

Our Team

Laura Walker

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
April Murphy

MARKETING AND DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
Anne Pesola

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR
Kristin Irvin

CARETAKER
Ella Gosnell

MUSEUM INTERN

Meet the Foundation

The Hegeler Carus Foundation, established in 1995, is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic Hegeler Carus Mansion in LaSalle, Illinois. Focused on restoration, education, and cultural activities, the foundation ensures the legacy of this significant 19th-century mansion and its ties to philosophy and publishing.

Donate to the Foundation

Hegeler Carus Foundation Board of Directors