springerle house

Springerle House: Your Cozy Retreat

By Nicole JohnsonJanuary 7, 2026

The Springerle House, nestled in the heart of Collinsville, Illinois, is a captivating historic site that transports visitors back to the early 19th century. This charming German-style home, built in 1837, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region and a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike.

Named after the Springerle cookie, a traditional German Christmas treat, the Springerle House is more than just a historic home. It's a living museum that offers a glimpse into the daily lives of early German settlers in the Midwest. Let's delve into the fascinating history and unique features of this remarkable house.

The History of the Springerle House

The Springerle House was constructed by German immigrants Friedrich and Maria Anna Schmidt in 1837. The Schmidts were among the many German families who settled in the Collinsville area, drawn by its fertile soil and promise of a better life. The house they built reflects their cultural heritage and the architectural styles they brought with them from Germany.

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Over the years, the Springerle House has seen several owners and undergone some renovations. However, much of its original structure and charm remain intact, providing a authentic glimpse into the past.

Architectural Features

The Springerle House is a classic example of German rural architecture, featuring a symmetrical design with a central hallway that divides the house into two equal parts. The home is constructed primarily of locally sourced limestone, a common building material in the region at the time.

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three carved cookies are sitting on a wooden table

a miniature house made out of clay with moss growing on the roof and door to it

One of the most striking features of the Springerle House is its steeply pitched roof, which was designed to accommodate the heavy snows of Illinois winters. The house also boasts a unique " Illinois Dutch" style of construction, with its walls made of solid stone masonry and its floors supported by wooden joists.

Interior Design and Furnishings

Inside, the Springerle House is furnished with a mix of original and reproduction pieces that reflect the tastes and lifestyle of its early German occupants. The home's interior is characterized by its simple, functional design and the use of locally available materials like wood and handmade textiles.

Visitors can explore the home's various rooms, including the kitchen, where they can see a reproduction of a historic wood-burning stove, and the parlor, which features a beautiful hand-carved German cupboard. The home's second floor contains several bedrooms, providing a sense of the intimate living quarters of the Schmidt family and their descendants.

a ceramic house with flowers and hearts on the front window is hanging on a wall

a hand is holding a miniature house made out of ceramic tiles and decorated with blue flowers

a gingerbread house is decorated with icing

a decorated gingerbread house on a plate with christmas lights and decorations around the windows

a cookie on a plate next to gloves and flowers

The Springerle House Today

Today, the Springerle House is owned and operated by the Collinsville Historical Society. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 in recognition of its significant historical and architectural importance.

The house is open to the public for tours, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage of the Collinsville area. The Springerle House also hosts special events throughout the year, including traditional German festivals and historical reenactments.

Educational Programs and Events

The Collinsville Historical Society offers a variety of educational programs and events at the Springerle House. School groups can participate in field trips that bring history to life, while adults can enjoy workshops and lectures on topics ranging from historic preservation to traditional German crafts.

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there is a blue house decorated with gold trimmings on the top and sides

a group of small white and pink buildings next to each other on top of a table

a cake shaped like a house with green shutters and flowers on the front porch

some small gingerbread houses sitting next to a lit candle on the floor with candles in front of them

two decorated gingerbread houses sitting next to each other

a small house made out of clay with ivy growing on it's roof and windows

several decorative items on a table with flowers in the background and lace around them,

a gingerbread house with blue shutters and windows on top of a gold stand

several different types of soaps are on a table next to some waxing supplies

a gingerbread house decorated with icing and decorations

gingerbread cookies with icing and decorations on top of a wooden table in the shape of houses

One of the most popular events at the Springerle House is the annual Christmas Open House. During this event, the home is decorated in period style and visitors can enjoy traditional German Christmas cookies, including the Springerle cookie, while learning about the holiday traditions of early German settlers.

Visiting the Springerle House is more than just a trip to a historic home. It's a journey through time, a celebration of cultural heritage, and a chance to connect with the past in a personal and engaging way. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the past, the Springerle House is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable experience.