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The Austin-Whittemore House is a historic residence located in Vermillion, South Dakota.

This structure serves as a museum showcasing local history and architecture.

Visual Characteristics

The Austin-Whittemore House is a two-story Queen Anne style Victorian home constructed primarily of wood. It features a prominent wraparound porch with decorative spindle work and turned posts. The exterior is painted in a combination of white and dark green. The roofline is complex, incorporating gables, dormer windows, and a turret. Architectural details include decorative shingles, bay windows, and ornate trim work.

Location & Access Logistics

The house is situated at 13 Maple Street in Vermillion, South Dakota. It is approximately 0.5km west of the Vermillion city center. Parking is available on the street directly in front of the property. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is located on Main Street, approximately 0.8km east of the house.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Austin-Whittemore House was built in 1887 for Charles Austin, a local businessman. The architect was George R. Lake. The house was later owned by the Whittemore family. It was acquired by the Clay County Historical Society in 1974 and converted into a museum.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the preserved interior rooms, which are furnished with period artifacts. Guided tours are available on a scheduled basis. The museum displays exhibits on local history, including the settlement of Vermillion and the lives of its early residents.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited shade is provided by the porch and surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the area. No food vendors are located directly on-site; dining options are available in Vermillion's downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for exterior photography is late afternoon, when the sun illuminates the west-facing facade. The museum is open year-round, with the most pleasant weather typically occurring between May and October.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is the house's original gas lighting system, which has been partially preserved. The house is rumored to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad, though concrete evidence is scarce.

Nearby Landmarks

• Clay County Historical Museum (0.3km East)
• University of South Dakota (0.8km Northeast)
• Spirit Mound State Historic Site (4.5km Southwest)
• Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center (4.8km Northeast)