The small city of Galena is home to hundreds of historic buildings, but the oldest here is the Dowling House. Built out of limestone in 1826, it also happens to be the oldest stone structure in the state of Illinois. While the Dowling House is historic, it’s also known to be haunted. Now a museum, visitors have their choice of a historical tour or a haunted tour through one of the local tour companies in town.

In 1826, a man by the name of John Dowling built a house out of limestone. Initially, there was a trading post on the first floor which happened to be the only trading post in the city for a long time. The second floor served as the residence of the Dowling family.
The Dowling House/Facebook
For many years after the Dowlings lived here, the building was left abandoned. In the 1960s, the structure was rehabilitated and it eventually opened to the public as a museum in the 1970s.
Luis Soto/Google
As part of the Galena Historic District, visitors can take a historic tour of the Dowling House. Guided tours last 30 minutes and are given May through November.
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On the tour, you'll learn about the history of both the City of Galena and the Dowling House.
jameec78/TripAdvisor
Throughout the house, you'll see a variety of furnishings from the 19th century as well as Galena pottery and primitive artifacts. It's a fascinating look into a bygone era.
jameec78/TripAdvisor
While the Dowling House is a historic site, it's apparently a haunted one as well. Orbs of light have been seen and there have been reports of paranormal encounters throughout the years.
jameec78/TripAdvisor
Another tour option that's perfect during the spooky fall season is a haunted tour through The Haunted Galena Tour Company. Sign up for their Haunted Galena Ghost Walk which meets right in front of the Dowling House. Will you discover any ghosts along this tour? You'll just have to find out!
Karen Foster

Have you visited Galena’s oldest house yet? If you have, let us know about your experience in the comments. To learn more, visit the Dowling House website and Facebook page. And if you’re interested in taking a haunted tour, head to The Haunted Galena Tour Company website.

While the Dowling House is a must-visit in town, there’s much more to explore in Galena. Read this article to learn more.

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