Hillforest stands on a hill overlooking Aurora, Indiana, and the Ohio River. Built in 1855, it was home to industrialist Thomas Gaff and his family. Today it’s a National Historic Landmark, and you can tour it in the afternoons, except during the dead of winter and on Mondays and holidays.
Aurora is a US 50 town. It’s hard to believe that it’s already been four years since I explored US 50 across Indiana with my Canon PowerShot S80 in my pocket. As road-trip season approaches, I find myself wanting to revisit the roads I have explored before. I saw so many great, interesting things along these old highways. I’d like to see some of them again, and I’d like to see how things have changed. I recently drove the Michigan Road through southern Indiana. Several things that I remember from my 2008 trip are gone now, including a log cabin, an old gas station, and a stone arch bridge. But Hillforest is certainly still there and is well maintained. When I see it again, I should stop long enough for a tour.
Last updated on 23 February 2020 by Jim Grey
Love these old houses – such history!
Isn’t this one just stunning?
What a beautiful piece of architecture, I can only imagine living in such a home, great shot Jim thanks for sharing !!
Bernie, it’s not that far from you — just down the road at Aurora!
Yes you should “stop long enough for a tour” and I should, too. I know I have toured inside the house but could find no evidence and there are hints that it was more than ten years ago. I’m due. I realized that when I saw the house in the Wonderland Way article in the latest American Road magazine. I’m giving serious thought to retracing the WW this summer.
Denny, I need to generally be better at slowing down while on the road to tour the things that are tourable. I’ve usually been so focused on covering miles that I miss things.
Love old houses, well, older stuff in general, i want to live in it.
Unlikely as it’s a national landmark, but perhaps you can find your own grand old home nearer where you live!
Usually all my dream houses are landmarks, sigh. :D
Can I come with you? :D
Sure! Let me know when your plane lands.