2011 Caton RoadOttawa, IL 61350

Description

Introducing one of Ottawa's most distinguished and storied residences-"Valley View," located at 2011 Caton Road. Nestled on 4+ private acres atop the North Bluff, this extraordinary estate blends rich American history with modern luxury, all within close proximity to Ottawa's charming and vibrant downtown. Located just 90 minutes southwest of Chicago, Ottawa sits at the scenic confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers, serving as the gateway to Starved Rock Country-a region renowned for natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Originally constructed in 1842, prior to the Civil War, for T. Lyle Dickey-a prominent attorney and eventual friend of Abraham Lincoln-the home holds remarkable historical significance. According to Dickey's descendants, Lincoln himself visited Valley View on multiple occasions. Today, subtle nods to this legacy remain, including curated historical photographs and preserved architectural details throughout the sprawling 5,500 square foot, 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom estate. From the moment you enter through the gated drive, you're met with the serenity of mature trees and manicured grounds. Entering the main level through the foyer reveals the home's grandeur: a stately formal living room with its original fireplace mantel, a spacious and light-filled sunroom, and an elegant library with fireplace. One of two primary suites is located on this level, complete with en-suite bath and bonus room. A hidden front courtyard entrance welcomes you into the heart of the home-featuring a chef's kitchen fully remodeled with Thermador double ovens, gas range, warming drawer, a custom Sub-Zero refrigerator, granite countertops, custom cabinetry, and an island. A spacious bar room with beverage fridge, wine fridge, and ample storage offers effortless entertaining. The adjacent formal dining room retains original wallpaper and is flooded with natural light from three sets of French doors that open to the patio. This level also includes a comfortable bedroom and full bath, a home office, cozy family room, laundry, and access to the estate's indoor saltwater pool. Surrounded by French doors, skylights, and picture windows, the pool area allows year-round enjoyment and connects seamlessly to the heated 4-car garage with workshop and utility sink. On the third floor, the second primary suite includes a private balcony with breathtaking views over the gardens, ponds, and the town of Ottawa below-earning the estate its name, Valley View. Hand-painted closet doors preserve the character and craftsmanship of the era, while a spacious en-suite bath has been updated for modern convenience. Two more bedrooms and an additional full bath complete this level. Outdoors, the estate's grounds rival botanical gardens-featuring stone pathways, koi ponds, waterfalls, a walking bridge, fire pit, and multiple terraced patios offering panoramic and commanding views of the Illinois River Valley. Every corner invites peaceful reflection or lively gatherings. Come experience this rare blend of history, elegance, and nature in the heart of Illinois' most picturesque region-Valley View is more than a home; it's a legacy.

Property Information

Property type

Residential

Sub-type

Single Family Residence

Style

Colonial

Year built

1842

Living area

5,050 Sq Ft

Lot size

4.25 acres

Lot dimensions

185130

Garage spaces

4

Parking spaces

4

Ownership

Fee Simple

Days on market

423

MLS^® Listing#

12399639

Property Features

Interior

Entrance Foyer · Built-in Features · Walk-In Closet(s) · Bookcases · Granite Counters

Exterior

Barbecue · Balcony · Outdoor Grill · Fire Pit

Appliances

Double Oven · Microwave · Dishwasher · Bar Fridge · Washer · Dryer · Disposal · Stainless Steel Appliance(s) · Wine Refrigerator · Cooktop · Oven · Water Softener Owned · Gas Cooktop

Cooling

Wall Unit(s)

Heating

Radiant

Flooring

Hardwood

Fireplace

Family Room · Living Room

Basement

Unfinished · Partial

Pool

In Ground · Indoor

Parking

Concrete · Garage Door Opener · Heated Garage · Attached · Garage

Laundry

Main Level

Patio

Deck · Patio · Porch

Construction

Stucco · Plaster

Roof

Slate

Sewer

Public Sewer

Water source

Public

Rooms

Schools

Elementary

Jefferson Elementary: K-4th Grad

Middle

Central Elementary: 5th And 6th

High

Ottawa Township High School

District

Ottawa Township High School

Financial Details

Annual taxes

$27,671Tax year 2024

Parcel number

2102107022

Directions

Interstate 80 to exit 90 (Ottawa-Columbus Street); Turn Left onto Columbus Street; Turn Right onto W. Etna Road; Continue on to Caton Road; Turn Right onto Boyce Lane (Private Drive). Gated entrance requires code (to get from listing agent upon appointment confirmation).