History
Bryant Cottage was built in 1856 for the family of Francis and Sarah Bryant. Francis Bryant was a politician, businessman, and active community leader. His political connections to Stephen Douglas led to a meeting in the parlor between Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. The two agreed to what are now known as the Lincoln-Douglas Debates. The Bryant home is now run as an Illinois State Historic Site.
Specialties
Bryant Cottage State Historic Site demonstrates what life was like for small town, middle class families of the mid-nineteenth century. This historic house musuem provides a look at what life was like then. The site also interprets the historic meeting between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas that was held here. With tours, history programs, and events throughout the year, Bryant Cottage attempts to connect people to history.