About Us

Today, the Binford House serves as a historic gathering place dedicated to community involvement, education, and service. After Jessie Binford donated the home to the Marshalltown Federation of Women’s Clubs, it evolved from a private family residence into a welcoming space where local organizations could meet, collaborate, and support community projects. Operated by a volunteer board and sustained through donations, rentals, and special events, the house continues to honor the Binford family’s vision of civic engagement and public service while preserving an important piece of Marshalltown’s history.

The History
of the
BINFORD HOUSE

The historic Binford House in Marshalltown, Iowa, was built in 1874 by Thaddeus and Angelica Binford, a progressive Quaker family whose influence helped shape the early growth and civic spirit of the community. The family’s daughter, Jessie Binford, became nationally known for her lifelong work advocating for women, children, immigrants, and social justice through her service at Hull House in Chicago. In 1930, Jessie donated the family home to the Marshalltown Federation of Women’s Clubs so it could continue serving the community as a gathering place for women’s organizations, civic projects, and the sharing of ideas. Today, the Binford House remains a treasured historic landmark operated by a volunteer board and supported through donations, rentals, and community events. The house is available for special occasions, meetings, educational programs, and public events, carrying forward the Binford family’s legacy of service, hospitality, and community involvement.

Jesssie Binford

Jessie Binford was born in Marshalltown in 1876 and grew up in what is now known as the Binford House. As a young woman, she moved to Chicago, where she became a leader at Hull House, working alongside Jane Addams to improve the lives of children, women, and families during a time of great social change. Jessie devoted her life to building safer communities. She worked with neighborhoods, social agencies, and city officials to protect children from abuse and neglect and to strengthen families. She later became executive director of the Juvenile Protective Association of Chicago and was remembered in a 1966 New York Times obituary as “the conscience of Chicago.” In 1977, she was posthumously inducted into the Iowa Women’s Hall of Fame.

Jessie’s deep love for Marshalltown and her faith in its women inspired her to donate her family home to the Marshalltown Federation of Women’s Clubs in 1930, giving the house a new purpose that continues her

work to this day.

The House

The Binford House was constructed in 1874 and reflects the craftsmanship and design style of the Victorian era, with many of its original architectural details still preserved today. The home features high ceilings, large bay windows, decorative woodwork, ornate trim, and handcrafted interior details that showcase the quality and style of 19th-century construction. A grand staircase, spacious parlors, and formal gathering rooms were designed to accommodate both family life and social entertaining, reflecting the Binford family’s active role in the community. Throughout the house, original hardwood floors, fireplaces, and detailed moldings help preserve the historic character of the home while offering visitors a glimpse into the elegance and daily life of Marshalltown’s early years.

While much of the home has been lovingly preserved and restored, the second floor remains an ongoing restoration project. Continued preservation efforts depend on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community supporters who share a passion for protecting Marshalltown’s history. Every contribution helps bring new life to the upper level and ensures that future generations will be able to experience and enjoy the beauty, history, and legacy of the Binford House for years to come.