The Benjamin Stephenson House has always been a part of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Illinois Eta Chapter, and it is a symbol of our voluminous history. A couple of the active members were able to work on the house and relive some of the memories that were made at this location. Our chapter occupied this landmark from 1982 up until 1999. 

This house was built in 1820 and gets its name from the original owner, Benjamin Stephenson, who was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Stephenson occupied this house until his death, which was in 1822. After this instance, the property went through many temporary owners before finally being purchased by our chapter. Owning this house was a blessing, but it also meant that everyone who lived in the house had to sacrifice numerous hours and priorities to keep the land properly functioning. The men who lived in this house took great pride in being the first house owners in Illinois Eta history.

The house was eventually bought by the Edwardsville Historic Preservation Committee. This overturn led to a restoration by the city that was completed in 2006. The property is now a museum and is available for tours.

The Benjamin Stephenson House is filled with great memories, but also holds historical significance. It is a notable landmark that is honored in the city of Edwardsville. This house is also on the list of U.S. National Register of Historic Places, which is a title that is only given to properties deemed worthy of preservation for their historical significance.

This year marked the 200th anniversary of the house, so the chapter wanted to do something special to celebrate its bicentennial. A few members spent a Saturday fixing up the exterior of the house while also learning about the history and impact it had on the chapter and the community. Although Sigma Phi Epsilon Eta Chapter is no longer the owner of the Benjamin Stephenson House, it is still honored in our chapter.