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 On October 7, 1849 tiny Greenfield, Indiana saw the birth of famous son James Whitcomb Riley to Reuben and Elizabeth Riley, the third of six children. Reuben was a skilled speech maker, a politician and lawyer. His mother was a poet and storyteller. James Whitcomb Riley came by his literary skills by both his parents. His Literary Career: He went to Indianapolis in 1878 to work for the Indianapolis Journal, published his first book of poetry in 1883, which proved to be immensely popular and gained him fame touring with the likes of Mark Twain and Bill Nye. At the conclusion of his tours, he was invited to stay at 528 Lockerbie Street, and here he remained, writing his poetry, for the remainder of his life. The James Whitcomb Riley Home : The James Whitcomb Riley Home is the house that Poet James Whitcomb Riley spent the last 23 years of his life. The home is at the heart of Lockerbie Square and contains many of Riley’s most treasured possessions. His desk, cane and hat are included among the artifacts on display. The Museum: The home was built in 1872 and it is the only late Victorian home preserved in the United States. Many of the furnishings, carpets, wall coverings and décor date back over 125 years. It has been preserved exactly the way the final occupants left it when Mr. Riley died in 1916. The home is now a museum, open for the public to visit and enjoy. Hours and admission fees: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday: Noon to 3:30 p.m.- For group reservations, please call 317-631-5885.- Closed on Mondays, holidays and the first three weeks in January. Admission: $.50 for students (ages 7-17) $3 for Adults $2 for Seniors Free for children 6 and under. |