Looking for a unique, high-end event space that perfectly blends midwestern charm with modern amenities and style? Look no further than our stunning venue located two train stops southwest of Chicago in historic Dwight, Illinois.

Our event space boasts breathtaking views and a warm, inviting atmosphere that will transport you and your guests to a world of peaceful sophistication. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a corporate retreat, or any other special occasion, our team is dedicated to helping you create unforgettable memories that perfectly reflect your vision and style in our idyllic setting.

Our beautifully renovated Garden Room and grounds offer the perfect setting for a romantic ceremony, while our spacious indoor area provides plenty of room for large receptions and other events. Our attention to detail is second to none, with every element carefully curated to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

In addition to our stunning property we offer a range of turn-key services and amenities, including full-service catering, a professional event planner, and a variety of high-end amenities to ensure your event is a complete success and your planning process is seamless. We can accommodate a wide variety of event sizes, with indoor and outdoor settings, and we will guide you to ensure your event is truly unforgettable

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our rural retreat event space is the perfect choice for an unforgettable experience. Contact us today to learn more and start planning your dream event!

The property was built in the late 1800s, and the grand Victorian was originally known as the Scott House, a twenty room boarding house. Placed on the National Register for Historic Places in 1980, the property has continued to serve as a fixture in Dwight, Illinois for over a century.

In 1895 the home went through an extensive renovation to become the residence of John R. Oughton, an Irish immigrant and one of the founders of the pioneering Keeley Institute, a world-class addiction treatment center. The Oughton Estate, designed by Joliet architect Julian Barnes, encompassed more than five acres in the heart of Dwight and made a name for itself across the Midwest because of its design and size.

Oughton, along with co-founders, Dr. Leslie Keeley and Major Curtis Judd, created The Keeley Institute on the Oughton estate to bring hope to thousands of alcoholics and their families. The Keeley Institute was a significant part of the town’s history and economy for over 70 years.

The property’s iconic windmill, built in 1896, originally served as the water system for the Oughton estate and at the time was one of the largest structures of its kind in the United States. In 2001, Mike and Bev Hogan donated the windmill to the village of Dwight as part of the property’s preservation efforts.

The John R. Oughton Estate also left an incredible legacy with the Prairie Creek Library, gifting the property’s Carriage House to the library in the late 1980s to address the critical need for additional space. The Carriage House was originally used to shelter the Oughton Estate’s prize horses and cattle, it then served the Keeley Institute as a recreation center, and later was used by the Country Mansion Restaurant as a banquet hall.

The Country Mansion was a popular gathering place for social events, dances, and weddings throughout the mid-20th century. Many local residents have fond memories of attending events at the Mansion and enjoying the beautiful grounds surrounding the building.

101 W South Street has long-served as an influential hub for Dwight and the surrounding communities in rural northeastern Illinois. The future of the property is now in the hands of developer Carson Woods and the Rural Hospitality Group. Woods, who is a native of Dwight, plans to continue to honor the history of the property and to restore it so it will continue to serve as a popular location for events and community activities, including concerts, dances, and festivals.