History of the Inn at 835

The Inn was designed during the Arts and Crafts Movement by one of the area’s leading architects, George Helmle. The building’s founder was Miss Bell Miller, a turn-of-the-century local businesswoman and florist to Springfield’s high society.

Sketch of Bell Miller's house Bell began her floral business in the early 1890’s, when she was only in her 20’s. Her trade flourished and she expanded her small floral business to a sprawl of adjacent greenhouses, which encompassed a city block. In time, Bell further expanded her business interests by building a luxurious apartment dwelling, working with George Helmle in designing her dream at 835 South Second Street.

By December of 1909, Bell had created one of Springfield’s premier residences, with airy verandahs, exquisite oak detailing, and massive fireplaces to warm the heart. Situated on a corner, near the neighborhood once termed "Aristocracy Hill", the building’s simple, dignified exterior design appealed to a refined sense of taste. As the years passed, an array of aristocratic tenants graced the luxury apartments.

Today, this stylish, Classical Revival structure has been fully renovated to afford you every modern convenience without detracting from the sense of gracious luxury which Bell Miller created. The Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been honored as a Springfield landmark by the City of Springfield.