The von KleinSmid Mansion was built for the von KleinSmid family of the DeKalb County city of Sandwich, Illinois, in the mid-nineteenth century.

The building is located on Sandwich's West Center Street, and is under private ownership.

[2] It was the childhood home of Rufus B. von KleinSmid, former President and Chancellor of the University of Southern California (1921-1947, 1947-1964).

[3] He became known for his work in international relations and encouragement of foreign students at USC, as well as accomplishing a major capital building program.

In the early 20th century, while studying criminal psychology, he became a passionate supporter of eugenics.