Historical House & Barn

Exterior view of the front and west side of the Historical House

Our Story

The Village of River Grove and the River Grove Historical Commission members have been researching and rebuilding the Italianate-style two-story home located at 8455 W. Grand Avenue in River Grove.

Nearly fully restored, the home serves as a museum featuring the history of River Grove and life in the second half of the 19th century.

The original house consists of a parlor, a sitting room, and a bedroom on the first floor along with three bedrooms upstairs. Mr. Buckman added a dining room and a bathroom. Then, at a later date, a kitchen, pantry, and closet were also added.

Visit Us

Free private guided tours are available but must be scheduled in advance. To schedule a tour, please call Village Hall at 708-453-8000.

2023 Programs and Events

Historical Commission volunteers will be conducting free tours of the Historical House on the third Sunday of the month from 1 pm to 4 pm - the last tour begins at 3:30 as follows: 

  • April 16, 2023
  • May 21, 2023
  • June 18, 2023
  • July 16, 2023
  • August 20, 2023
  • September 17, 2023
  • October 15, 2023

Imagine life without cell phones, television, radio, or automobiles! How did people ever survive? Take a free tour and learn about life in River Grove in the 1880s.

New volunteers are always welcome and needed.

Items For Sale

  • Note & Postcards
  • Historical House Cookbook featuring recipes and info collected from many residents over the years

View our Historical House Online

View the Historical House Website