The 51st Annual Benton House Tour of Homes & Car Show in historic Irvington will be held by the Benton House Association on Sunday, Sept. 15 from noon – 5 p.m. The Benton House is located at 312 S. Downey Ave. This year promises to be a great tour, with a couple of fun surprises, and a new business in a cool space on the agenda.
Every year, the Benton House Tour of Homes reveals the unique, eclectic style of private spaces in Irvington, a unique and eclectic community that is the largest protected historic district in Marion County. Victorian, Mid-Century, Craftsman, and many other architectural styles are featured on the tour, and the owners will be on hand to answer questions from guests. Tour stops include 210 S. Audubon — The Snug and adjacent Air B&B, 49 N. Sheridan, 509 N. Ritter Ave., and the Bona Thompson Memorial Center at 5350 University Ave. (corner of Downey and University).
This year, save yourself the trouble of driving and finding a parking space with the shuttle service for only an extra $5. Thanks to Top Shelf Tours, you can step on and step off. These air-conditioned shuttles make the day that much more enjoyable. If you prefer, you are welcome to bike to the homes.
The Benton House Classy Car Show Benefit will run from noon-5. Awards will be presented at 3 p.m. All cars must arrive by 11:30 a.m. This year there is a registration fee of $10. The awards for this year include the Best in Show, Crowd Favorite, Most Muscle, Best Paint, Best Interior, and Most Unique. Every car show participant will receive a free ticket for the Home Tour.
In addition to the cool cars and homes, there will be live music and food for purchase on the Benton House grounds.
Tickets are $20 in advance of the tour and $25 the day of the tour. Tickets can be purchased at any of the tour stops on the day of the tour. Those buying their ticket with a credit card on the day of the tour need to do so at The Benton House. Order tickets online at thebentonhouse.org under “Home Tour” or you can purchase tickets at the Benton House, located at 312 S. Downey Ave.
The annual Benton House Tour of Homes is the biggest fundraiser for the Historic Benton House. The Locke Group will present this year’s tour, and sponsors include L.D. Smith; Eddie Hacker, State Farm agent, Hampton Designs, Benge, George Thomas Florist, Mundell Consulting Professionals, Central Ace Hardware, Black Sheep, Irvington DQ, Hadley & Hallmann Team, Irvington Insurance, The Med, Oakley Hammond, and Our Lady of Lourdes. All proceeds from the tour will go directly towards the upkeep and maintenance of the house, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Proceeds from past tours have gone towards permanent signage in the front yard, a new slate roof, gutters and downspouts, new event chairs, landscaping, and foundation repairs, just to name a few.
Built in 1873, the Benton House was once home of Butler University president Dr. Allen R. Benton. The home is of French Mansard design and was built by Nicholas Ohmer.
