1881 Victorian house in Ottawa, Illinois - $296k

Outstanding Victorian house for sale in Ottawa, Illinois. Built in 1881, it features a wraparound L-shaped front porch, an open staircase with intricate original millwork, hardwood floors, pocket doors, a primary suite with a decorative fireplace, updated central air conditioning, 4 bedrooms, and 2677 square feet. $296,900.

1881 Victorian House Ottawa Illinois - 1 - front view
Listen to this article

House overview

Welcome to this timeless Victorian masterpiece, beautifully situated on a prominent corner lot in the heart of Ottawa, just a short 0.3-mile (approximately 5-minute) walk to Washington Square Park and all that downtown Ottawa has to offer.

Situated on two separate lots with two PINs, this remarkable property combines historic elegance, exceptional craftsmanship, and an unbeatable location.

From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the home's incredible curb appeal, highlighted by mature landscaping and a stunning wraparound L-shaped front porch - the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee, unwind in the evening, or simply take in the beauty of the neighborhood.

Interior and architectural details

Step inside through the welcoming 4x4 vestibule into a breathtaking grand foyer featuring an impressive open staircase with intricate original millwork and a beautiful built-in light fixture that immediately showcases the home's remarkable character.

Throughout the home, you'll find:

  • Gorgeous hardwood floors

  • Exquisite crown mouldings

  • Transom windows

  • Pocket doors

  • Stunning woodwork that simply cannot be replicated in today's construction

The spacious living room is filled with natural light and flows seamlessly into the inviting family room, where a beautiful fireplace creates a warm gathering space and a door provides direct access to the wraparound porch.

The formal dining room is equally impressive, featuring hardwood flooring, elegant chair rail detailing, and ample space for entertaining.

The spacious kitchen comes complete with appliances and offers convenient access to the attached 1.5-car garage.

Home layout and modern updates

Upstairs, the generous landing creates a charming library or reading loft overlooking the staircase. The second level offers four spacious bedrooms, including a primary bedroom featuring its own beautiful decorative fireplace, along with a shared full bathroom.

The walk-up attic provides exciting potential for future finished living space, while the full basement offers abundant storage, tall ceilings, large windows, a convenient half bathroom, and a beautifully finished shower - making it an incredibly functional space.

Thoughtful updates include:

  • An electrical system updated by Brian Garland

  • Central air conditioning added in 2024

  • A roof replacement completed in 2016, providing modern comfort while preserving the home's historic integrity

Offering two separate lots with individual PINs, extraordinary architectural details, abundant living space, and an exceptional location within walking distance of downtown Ottawa's restaurants, shopping, festivals, and parks, this is a rare opportunity to own a true piece of Ottawa history. Homes with this level of craftsmanship, charm, and character rarely become available.

House details

  • Bedrooms: 4

  • Bathrooms: 2

  • Interior area: 2,677 sqft

  • Lot size: 10,454 sqft

  • Year built: 1881

  • Style: Victorian

  • State: Illinois

  • Price: $296,900

  • Photos and info: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group

  • Contact: George Shanley, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group

    • Tel: (815) 228-1859

    • Email: gshanley@coldwellhomes.com

  • Address: 300 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, IL 61350

 

Photo gallery (1-11)

Photo gallery (12-22)

Photo gallery (23-35)

Photo gallery (36-46)

House Plans

Vincenzo Milella

Vincenzo is a digital publisher and historical housing archivist who has dedicated over five years to documenting historic American architecture. As the founder of Old Houses USA, he collaborates with a network of over 900 realtors to source, archive, and catalog the unique stories of featured properties. Learn more about this independent curation project on the About Us page. You can also follow Old Houses USA on Google for new property updates.

Previous
Previous

1890 Tudor Revival house in Saint Paul, Minnesota - $1.2 Million

Next
Next

The Gustav Mayer House, 1855 Italianate villa in Staten Island, New York - $1.2 Million