Welcome to Historic Shiloh House
Shiloh House is a stunning 25-room mansion, built in 1901 as the residence of Zion’s founder, Dr. John Alexander Dowie. Known for establishing the Christian Catholic Church and founding the City of Zion, Dr. Dowie played a pivotal role in creating one of the most unique religious utopias and planned industrial communities of the 20th century. Dr. Dowie resided here until his passing on March 9, 1907.
Designed by architect Paul Burkhardt, a Swiss native, Shiloh House features a distinct Swiss Chalet design in its upper stories. The house, constructed with red brick and Indiana limestone, combines elegance with symbolism. The original roof displayed a striking tile pattern, symbolizing the Trinity and the power of God. Though now replaced with shingles, the original design remains intact. Shiloh House was built with the combined efforts of the city’s skilled craftsmen, with every detail—from brick masonry to wainscoting—contributing to its architectural brilliance.
Inside Shiloh House
Shiloh House’s floor plan is a testament to its grandeur, featuring a magnificent foyer, a family parlor, a business parlor, a dining room, and the personal study of Dr. Dowie. The second floor houses the Dowie family’s private quarters, including Dr. Dowie’s bedroom, the bedrooms of his wife and son, and a guest room dedicated to the display of Zion Lace and related artifacts.
Notable details inside the house showcase the opulence of the era. Dr. Dowie spared no expense, installing both electricity and gas for illumination. The imported European light and bathroom fixtures, white-tiled bathrooms, and silver-swan bathtub faucets exemplify the house’s luxurious features. The cedar closet, pink fireplace in Esther Dowie’s room, and unique dual stairways—one for the Master and one for the servants—are just a few of the fascinating elements that make Shiloh House a historical gem.
Zion Lace Room
The third-floor guest room, known as the Zion Lace Room, showcases a collection of lace woven at the Zion Lace Factory, as well as photographs and tools used by the lace makers. This room is a tribute to Zion’s craftsmanship and the hard work of its early residents.
The History of Shiloh House
Upon Dr. Dowie’s death in 1907, his estate declared bankruptcy, and Shiloh House was sold. Over the years, it served various purposes, from a private residence to a school dormitory. In 1967, Wesley Ashland, a Zion jeweler, purchased Shiloh House with the intention of restoring it to its former glory and creating the Zion Historical Society.
Today, after decades of dedicated restoration, Shiloh House has been beautifully returned to its original Victorian-era splendor. It now stands not only as a monument to Dr. John Alexander Dowie and his legacy but also as the headquarters of the Zion Historical Society and a museum that celebrates Zion’s unique history.
Visit Shiloh House
The first floor of Shiloh House is available for special event rentals, offering a charming and historical setting for gatherings. Tours are also available for those interested in exploring the mansion and learning more about the history of Zion and Dr. Dowie’s vision.
Shiloh House is more than a building—it’s a living piece of history that continues to inspire and educate generations about Zion’s remarkable past.
