Clifford House Deep Dive

Read on for a brush with Hollywood glam in these stately walls.

Clifford House Exterior

Originally built for William Clifford, this stately home sits not far from downtown Champaign. Clifford was a businessman and state senator, serving from 1933-1941. He received a degree in civil engineering at the U of I and was listed as the owner and executive of a drop forging manufacturing plant in Champaign, IL. He married Clara Kessburger Sep 18, 1915.

Most notable perhaps, is Clifford's daughter. Marcella Martin won a speaking role in "Gone With the Wind", even sharing a trailer with Vivian Leigh. She married her second husband (an actor as well) in this very backyard.

Marcella's headshot

After Mr. Clifford passed in 1957, his other daughter Catherine and her family continued as stewards of this house. Catherine (1919-2005) married Robert Riegel in October 1937. They moved into this address in 1958 and had a son, Clifford, and daughter, Marcella. Robert was a basketball captain in his time at the U of I and became a salesperson and owner of a farming supply store. Catherine was also active in the community, on the stage and in social clubs. Mrs. Riegel graduated from University High School in Urbana and Lindenwood College in St. Charles, Mo. She was a member of Daughter's of the Mayflower Descendants and enjoyed traveling to California, dancing and showing horses.

From businessmen, to hollywood stars, basketball players, and insurance salesmen, this old house has certainly seen an exciting array of people. It's beautiful inside and out, with a gorgeous garden and what may be a Chihuly glass skylight inside. To this day, an ornate "C" of the Clifford family rests above the front door. This was truly one of my favorite homes to research. You never know what enchanting stories will turn up!