Benton House &

Historic Gardens

The Benton House, a striking example of French Mansard architecture, has stood as a symbol of Irvington’s history since 1873. Built by Nicholas Ohmer, this elegant home was designed to be one of five model residences envisioned for the community. However, the economic downturn of the 1870s led to more modest development in the area, making the Benton House a unique and lasting landmark.

The home features linteled windows, etched glass entry doors, and a rare hanging staircase—one of only two in the Indianapolis area. During restoration efforts, the original wooden shutters were discovered in the basement’s crawlspace and carefully reinstalled, preserving the home’s historic charm.

A Home of Legacy

The Benton House has had a rich history of ownership. In 1880, it became the residence of Dr. Allen R. Benton—a two-time president of Butler University—and his wife, Silence Benton. The couple lived in the home until 1907, after which it was purchased by Willis and Isabelle Miller, whose family remained in the house for decades. Their son, Herschel Eugene Miller, later sold the home to the Irvington Historic Landmarks Foundation in 1966, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Today, the home contains several original pieces, including two chairs, a Pier mirror, and Dr. Benton’s Bibles, generously donated by Michael Miller, a descendant of the Miller family.

Preserving Period Elegance

The interior restoration of the Benton House honors the elegance of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The walls are adorned with replica wallpaper from circa 1900, reflecting the aesthetic that may have been present during Dr. Benton’s residency. Period chandeliers, furnishings, and decorative elements, donated by supporters of the Benton House, add to its authentic historical ambiance.
To ensure the home’s ongoing care and security, a caretaker resides on-site, overseeing its maintenance and preservation.

A Community Gathering Place

The Benton House is more than a historic site—it serves as a center for community events and private gatherings. The home is available for weddings, retreats, and special events, with all proceeds dedicated to the maintenance and restoration of this cherished landmark.

The Historic Gardens

The Benton House Historic Gardens offer a unique glimpse into pre-1900 heirloom horticulture, with thousands of historic plant varieties blooming throughout the year.
Each April, the garden hosts Daffodil Week, featuring daffodils hybridized as early as 1777. Spring brings a vibrant display of species tulips, crocuses, snowdrops, and Scilla siberica, carpeting the grounds in vivid colors. The shade garden highlights native woodland flowers such as Virginia bluebells, Dutchman’s breeches, prairie trilliums, and wild ginger.
As the seasons progress, the garden showcases a remarkable collection of historic peonies, some dating back over 150 years, along with heirloom irises, fragrant lilies, and daylilies introduced to America during colonial times. The Victoria Fernery, located in the Downey and Ohmer corner, features native ferns, complemented by classic hosta varieties, creating a lush and peaceful retreat.
The gardens are maintained by the Irvington Garden Club under the supervision of master gardener Ed Myers.