Inn at 835 Inn, Springfield, Illinois Postcard

Built in the early 1900s, the Inn at 835 in Springfield, Illinois, first housed luxury apartments. The dream of Bell Miller, a turn of the century businesswoman, it was designed during the Arts and Crafts movement by architect, George Helmle. While still in her 20s, Miller began a floral business in the early 1890’s, catering to Springfield’s high society. Before long, she expanded her small business into a number of greenhouses, encompassing a city block. In December 1909, her dream apartment building was completed, including airy verandahs, massive fireplaces and exquisite oak detailing in a neighbourhood once termed "Aristocracy Hill.” It's on an historic section of Route 66. In 1994, the building was completely renovated and the apartments were converted into seven luxurious guest rooms. In 1995, the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. According to the legend, Miller became so fond of her dream home, that she refuses to leave and haunts the place.