Francis Costigan (1810-1865) was a noted 19th century architect and builder. In 1837, Costigan moved from Baltimore, Md., to Madison,Ind., where he spent the next 15 years designing and building some of the town’s most recognized structures. From Madison, he moved on to Indianapolis, where he continued to design and build several commercial and residential buildings, none of which remain standing.
If you’ve spent any time touring Madison’s Historic District, you are already aware of some of Costigan’s architectural masterpieces, most notably the J.F.D. Lanier Mansion (owned and operated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources), the Shrewsbury House on West Second Street, and the Costigan Residence on West Third Street (owned and operated by Historic Madison Inc.).
On Saturday, Oct. 23, the Cornerstone Society will offer a unique opportunity for a limited number of participants to visit some lesser-known privately owned Costigan-attributed buildings that have rarely, if ever, been studied before.
This one-time event has been organized by and will be conducted by Cornerstone member Link Ludington, who is also the Architectural Historian for the Indiana State Museum’s 10 State Historic Sites. Ludington has lived in the Madison area since 1971, is a graduate of Hanover College, and has studied Historic Preservation in the graduate program at Ball State University’s College of Architecture and Planning.
Because the tour will be entering private residences, the society must limit the size of the tour and attendance will be by advance registration only, on a first come, first served basis. Reservations must be made by calling (812) 273-1123, no later than Oct. 15.
This event is offered free of charge to all Cornerstone members. There will be a $10 per person fee for all non-members. Further details about the tour will be provided at the time of registration.

• Rich Murray is president of the Cornerstone Society in Madison, Ind. Call him at (812) 273-1123.