Your Visit to The Oaks

For a truly relaxing country getaway, come join us at The Oaks in historic Petersburg, Illinois. Standing high atop a bluff overlooking Petersburg and the Sangamon River Valley, The Oaks is an elegant and romantic 19th century Victorian mansion situated on five and one half park-like acres, adorned with magnificent stands of oak trees and delightful gardens. We offer a memorable nights' lodging, a full gourmet breakfast, and an afternoon repast such as tea and cookies, or wine and cheese.

Our overnight guests can also enjoy a romantic candlelit seven course dinner in our elegant dining room. Dinner is served table de hote, and advanced reservations are required. Picnic lunches are also available upon request.

 

 

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History of The Oaks



Nestled among five bluffs overlooking the Sangamon River, Petersburg is two miles downstream of Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site. The town was founded by George Warburton and Peter Lukins in 1833. It was named for Lukins, legend has it, after he beat Warburton at a game of cards played for the honor of choosing the name. Warburton is said to have preferred the name Georgetown.

 



 
















 

  
 
 

 

The town remains laid out as surveyed in 1836 by Deputy County Surveyor Abraham Lincoln, and has been the Menard County seat since 1839. The 1846 Whig district convention held here nominated Lincoln for the Illinois 7th Congressional District, and his subsequent election victory sent him to Washington.

 Petersburg grew as a center of commerce throughout the late 1800's. One of the results has been the lasting beauty of its many fine Victorian homes, including The Oaks. Built in 1875, this Italianate Victorian mansion was the home of Illinois State Senator Edward Laning, his wife Olivia, and their children, Martha and John. The house was beautifully crafted by John Carver, builder of many of the finer homes in this area. It features a three-story walnut staircase anchored by an intricately carved newel post. The home is still graced by seven fireplaces, the unique plasterwork of the walls and ceilings and the original interior shutters.

Located in Historic - Petersburg, Illinois
510 West Sheridan Rd, Petersburg, IL 62675
Call for Reservations (217) 632-5444 or 888-724-6257.
Copyright © 2005-06 The Oaks Bed & Breakfast. All rights reserved.