Birthday Party for Governor Oglesby At Mansion July 23

The Oglesby Mansion

The Governor Richard J. Oglesby Mansion located at 421 West William Street in Decatur will be hosting a 199th Birthday Celebration in honor of the Governor. The festive family friendly event will be Sunday, July 23rd, 2023, from 1pm-4 pm, a $2 donation per person is requested. Light refreshments will be served. Our “Governor Oglesby” will be in attendance and will be available for selfies! The party will include child-friendly lawn games, a cake walk and bingo! Attendees will also be able to participate in a scavenger hunt game that includes popular display items in the mansion. When guests arrive, they will be given a free raffle ticket. There will be prizes for children and adults. The prize drawings will be held during the event. Historically, Richard J. Oglesby is recognized as Decatur’s most distinguished citizen. He served his country well as a U.S. Senator, a Civil War Union General, and a three-time Governor of Illinois. The Governor was born July 25, 1824. He was a close friend and confidant of Abraham Lincoln. He nominated Lincoln for the presidency in Decatur and ultimately accompanied his body back to Illinois after the assassination. Oglesby Mansion Board President, Carol Pelz says, “we are always happy to see generations of families stop in and enjoy this beautiful treasure located in the historic district. Our board is grateful for a good working relationship with the conservation district which owns the physical structure. Our board maintains the contents.” The mansion is open the last Sunday of every month (through November) from 2pm-4pm for guided tours. The venue is also available for rent for small receptions, showers, meetings, and family events. More information about the Mansion and the Governor is available at www.oglesbymansion.org