1837
House Built by Denham
In 1837, the house was built by Butler Denham. It served as a farm house, surrounded by almost 130
1850
East Section Added
Over the course of the 1850's, the east section of the house was added.
1899
Eunice Lovejoy Dies
In 1899, Eunice (Denham) Lovejoy died. Her daughters and one of Owen's sons lived in the home for
1931
Home Purchased
The home was purchased in 1931 by Jay Spaulding and his daughter, Sue Gross, who did some restoratio
1951
Building Deteriorates
Between the years of 1951-1966, the home changed owners many times, and was also vacant for a number
1967
Restoration Committee Formed
Concerned citizens of Princeton formed a Restoration Committee, and the home was saved from the bull
1970
Grant Obtained
A grant was obtained in 1970 from the state of Illinois for $30,000, for the purpose of restoring th
1970
Restoration Process Begins
Later in 1970, and up until 1972, the home was restored. The building was raised 8 feet into the a
1971
Dedication
The house is formally dedicated in 1971.
1972
House Deeded to Princeton
In 1972, the house is deeded to the city of Princeton.
1973
National Register Recognition
In 1973, the house is placed on the National Register of Historic Sites.
1976
Daughters of the American Revolution
In 1976, the house is recognized by the Daughters of the American Revolution.
1997
National Historic Landmark
The house is formally designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1997.
2001
Underground Railroad Network
In 2001, the homestead was admitted to the Underground Railroad Network to the Freedom Program.