Vergennes Downtown Historic District | Vergennes

Information

Landmark: Vergennes Downtown Historic District
City: Vergennes
Country: USA Vermont
Continent: North America

Vergennes Downtown Historic District, Vergennes, USA Vermont, North America

The Pettigrew Home & Museum is a historic house museum located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

It preserves the former residence of Senator George A. Pettigrew and showcases local history and artifacts.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a two-and-a-half-story Queen Anne style Victorian house constructed primarily of red brick. It features a prominent wraparound porch with turned posts and decorative spindle work. The roofline is complex, with multiple gables and dormer windows. Architectural details include a turret on the northeast corner and a porte-cochère.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated at 1315 South Phillips Avenue in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It is approximately 1.5 miles south of the downtown core. Parking is available on-site in a dedicated lot adjacent to the house. Public transport options include the Sioux Area Metro bus system; Route 3 stops within a 0.2-mile walk of the museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Pettigrew Home was completed in 1889. The house was designed by architect Joseph Schwarz and built for Senator George A. Pettigrew, a prominent local businessman and politician. The original purpose was as a private residence. The site itself is part of the glacial till plains characteristic of southeastern South Dakota.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the preserved rooms of the Pettigrew Home, which are furnished with period pieces. Exhibits focus on Sioux Falls history, including early settlement, the development of local industries, and the life of Senator Pettigrew. Educational programs and special events are held throughout the year.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited shaded areas are present on the porch. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in the vicinity. No on-site food vendors are present, but dining options are available within a 0.5-mile radius.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday. For optimal interior lighting for photography, visiting during midday hours (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) is recommended. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, offering pleasant outdoor conditions for travel to the site.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that Senator Pettigrew was instrumental in the establishment of the Sioux Falls Argus-Leader newspaper. A local anecdote suggests that the house's turret was designed to provide a commanding view of the city's early development.