Larchmound

Larchmound, located in Olney, Illinois, was the historic home of renowned ornithologist and botanist Robert Ridgway from 1913 until his death. Built in 1866, the house features Gothic architectural elements and served as a creative sanctuary where Ridgway authored 27 published works, including his significant book, The Birds of North and Middle America. The property, which included botanical research and tree specimens planted by Ridgway, was recognized for its historical significance and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Unfortunately, the house fell into disrepair and was demolished in June 2024, but its legacy as a center of scientific study and natural history remains noteworthy for visitors and researchers alike.