Dana Thomas House History & Preservation
DANA THOMAS HOUSE A BRIEF HISTORY
About The Dana-Thomas House
The Dana-Thomas House (DTH) was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902 for Susan Lawrence Dana, a forward-thinking socialite living in Springfield, Illinois. The home, the 72nd building designed by Wright, contains the largest collection of site-specific, original Wright art glass and furniture. Wright’s first “blank check” commission, the home has 35 rooms in the 12,000 square feet of living space which includes 3 main levels and 16 varying levels in all.
Rightfully regarded as a local treasure, the DTH is a gorgeous house museum. Following its acquisition of the House, the Illinois State Historic Preservation Agency undertook a major restoration project. The results yielded a beautifully preserved example of Mr. Wright’s genius.
Beyond the essence of an architectural masterpiece of international significance, the house is a brilliant showcase of craftsmanship in glass doors, windows and light fixtures; terra cotta sculpture and an exquisite mural; it is the best preserved and most complete of Frank Lloyd Wright’s early “Prairie” houses.
We want you to be part of our museum, experience its beauty and this is why we offer several ways to let you engage with us to help maintain and preserve the Dana-Thomas House. Whether you are a student aspiring a career in social work, an individual, or family who wants to maintain the arts in your community, or a business who cares about the local history we have everything for all of you. Come in for a tour, attend an event or become a member today!
Take a virtual tour with preservation architect Mike Jackson, FAIA. Click here for virtual tour
Upcoming Events
Education
An Education Packet is available from the Dana-Thomas House for use in classrooms. The packet contains a PowerPoint and narrative to accompany the photos and is available in elementary, intermediate or high school levels of design and content.
Foundation
The Foundation was formed in 1983 as a not-for-profit corporation to support the Dana-Thomas House Historic Site. With assistance of members who respect and cherish this important piece of history.
Tour
The Dana-Thomas House is open for tours 9 AM - 5 PM, Wednesday through Sunday each week, additional hours seasonally 10 AM - 2 PM Monday and Tuesday. Tours are offered throughout the day and last about an hour.
Foundation Board Officers and Directors
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Carol Kerins
Board Director -
Cherri Williams
Board Director -
Robert Marcy
Board Director -
Dave Truesdell
Board Director -
Cinda Klickna
Board Director -
Art Silver
Board Director -
Susan Helm
Board Director -
Laura Nestler
Board Director -
Dr. Dyanne Ferk
Board Director -
Jackson Fredman
Board Director -
Tim Smith, AIA
Board Director -
Mike Jackson, FAIA
Board Director -
Michael Dunbar
Board Director -
Drew Davis
Board Director -
Ken Gilmore
Board Secretary -
Brent Leach
Treasurer -
Allicent Huffaker Smith
Vice President -
Celeste Pankey
President of the Board -
Regina Albanese
Executive Director -
Doug Carr
Board Director, Photographer -
Caren Mansfield
Recent Past President