Dillon Home Museum

The home was built in 1858 for Brigadier General Edward Kirk. The home is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Dillon’s bought the home in 1882. Washington Dillon had the Northwest Barb Wire Co., which was wildly successful. His son, P.W. Dillon, eventually took over the mill and it became Northwestern Steel and Wire Company. P.W. was born in the house, and he died in the house in 1980 at the age of 96. The cities of Sterling and Rock Falls were built up around the mill because of the job opportunities. The 1929 Baldwin Locomotive that sits in the rear grounds was the last working steam engine in the United States to be used in an industrial application. Mrs. Dillon traveled extensively and the home is filled with treasures from around the country, and the world. It is untouched from the day Mr. Dillon passed in 1980, and very impressive. The furnishings date from the late 1800’s to the mid-1900’s, and are all original. Haunted Train Walk in Oct. Christmas Walk in Dec.