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Listed in Heritage museum, Historical place, Lincoln Heritage Trail, Pioneer History

• 620 E County Rd 1575 N
  Gentryville, Indiana 47537
• 812 937-4710
• https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/lincoln-state-park/

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Description

The Colonel William Jones Home, also known as Locust Grove, preserves the legacy of one of Indiana's most influential early pioneers. Located near Gentryville in Spencer County, the brick Federal-style home was built between 1807 and 1810 by William Jones, a Revolutionary War veteran, merchant, territorial legislator, militia officer, and close friend of William Henry Harrison. Today, the home is preserved as part of Lincoln State Park and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Indiana's frontier years. (in.gov)

William Jones was one of the most prominent citizens of the Indiana Territory. He operated a successful trading business, served as a colonel in the territorial militia, represented Knox County in the territorial legislature, and played an important role in supporting Harrison during the years leading up to the Battle of Tippecanoe. His home frequently welcomed military leaders, politicians, travelers, and settlers moving westward into the frontier.

The house also shares an important connection with Abraham Lincoln. The Jones family lived only a few miles from the Lincoln family farm, and young Abraham visited the property on numerous occasions. Jones recognized Lincoln's intelligence and reportedly allowed him to borrow books from his personal library—an opportunity that helped nurture Lincoln's lifelong love of learning. Although historians debate exactly how often Lincoln visited, there is little doubt that William Jones became an important influence during Lincoln's formative years in Spencer County. (nps.gov)

Today, visitors can tour the restored home and surrounding grounds while learning about frontier politics, military service, early commerce, and the relationships that shaped Indiana's territorial history. The Colonel William Jones Home is an essential stop for anyone exploring Lincoln's boyhood years, the Indiana frontier, or the Ohio River Valley's early history.

Historical References / Learn More

Indiana State Historic Sites – Locust Grove – Official history, tours, and visitor information.
https://www.in.gov/history/state-historic-sites/locust-grove/
National Park Service – William Jones and Locust Grove history, including Lincoln connections.
https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/william-jones-and-locust-grove.htm
Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial – Information about Lincoln's years in Spencer County.
https://www.nps.gov/libo/
Indiana Historical Bureau – William Jones and Indiana Territorial history.
https://www.in.gov/history/

Street

620 E County Rd 1575 N

Latitude

38.114144

Longitude

-87.042913

Children

Good for kids

Parking

On-site parking

Country

USA

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