The historic Francis & Abbie Solon House was built in 1867 as a “spec” house by local Champaign developer, William Barrett. Seeley Brown was the architect and builder of this handsome Tuscan Villa Italianate residence. Wealthy farmer Abel Harwood purchased the home in 1869 for $12,000 as his retirement residence. After his widow’s death in 1902, the house was rented briefly until it was sold in 1907 to Francis and Abbie Solon, also wealthy farmers.The Solons raised their five children in the home. Their grandchildren donated the house to PACA in 2005 for its preservation.

Currently for sale ($299,000), the building needs a total renovation, including new mechanicals, bathrooms, and kitchen. A new metal roof was installed 2008. More details about the house, its history, and photographs are found under the Francis & Abbie Solon House in Buildings Saved.