In 1906, this beautiful, historical home was constructed by builder W.J. Aikman, a native of Marion, a real estate tycoon, vice president of the bank and a farmer. “The Aikman House” as it became known served as the Aikman family’s home until 1938 when Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Melvin took ownership. Between 1961 and 1969, the home stood vacant; then Wayland Sims purchased the property and renovated it, transforming the substantially built home into a remarkable show piece attracting hundreds of visitors through the years. In 2003 the home once again traded hands, this time to Laura Walstrom, then a month later was taken over by the Hartland Regional Medical Center for a doctor to occupy. Legend has it that the doctor’s wife believed the house to be haunted by ghosts, so the couple fled their home. The house stood vacant until purchased in March 2010 by Debbie Hayes who has since renovated the mansion, adding wheelchair accessible bathroom additions, three bathrooms for the bedrom suites, two commercial kitchens, a concrete patio and more. The house has been renamed “Jasones” in loving memory of Debbie’s son Jason Rowcliffe who went to heaven December 24,2002.

I love to cook and make unique and tasty dishes. Meeting the many people who have stayed here has truly been a blessing to me. There is so much to do here in Southern Illinois. I look forward to having you stay as well!

There are so many things to do an attractions in Southern Illinois! Locally, there are many antique malls and shops. Hiking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, wine trails, Miss Illinois Pageant, sights to see, places to go...and the list goes on! See my website for a full menu of activities, descriptions and addresses.