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Saturday May 17, 2008
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Winnetka

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Winnetka Real Estate: Homes in History

It was a gorgeous summer's day in 1965. Eight-thousand people were gathered around the Village Green in the town of Winnetka to hear Dr. Martin Luther King speak on the subject of segregated neighborhoods along the North Shore. In all likelihood, his speech was brilliant. Recently on January 15th, this great speech was commemorated on the same Village Green over forty years later. King's presence on the Green is just one of the many events that make Winnetka's real estate rich in historical significance.

Winnetka's scenery is stunning. It's Native-American meaning, "Beautiful Land" is the perfect description of its quaint, delicately kept landscape. According to Kathleen Reidy, realtor, "Winnetka is one of the most beautiful suburbs in New Trier Township. Filled with mature trees and stately homes, it is a community that generations of people have loved to call home."

In addition to its breathtaking beauty, Winnetka's homes and buildings are also known for their historical value. The town was established in 1869 which makes it nearly two-hundred years old! Many of the residential houses are the same age, a fact which stands as a glowing attribute to the meticulous preservation of the town.

The Burnham-Schmidt log house is a perfect example of outstanding preservation. This cozy house still stands after nearly one-hundred seventy years. According to staff writers at WinnetkaHistory.org, "the Burnham log house is considered to be the oldest building in Cook County. It exemplifies the lifestyle of early settlers in our community." The log house has persevered through two relocations; the first one in 1917 by a team of horses, (preservation@nthp.org); and the second (more recent) on May 11th of 2003. The Winnetka Historical Society is very appreciative of the fact that the Burnham family has deemed it the heir and curator to the estate.

411 Linden St. is also a tribute to Winnetka's rich history. According to Joan Evanich, writer of the article A Permanent Home for Winnetka's History, "411 Linden St. is one of the only remaining Civil War Era houses in our community." The Linden Corner completely reflects the style of those times with its bright colors and charming build. Writes Evanich, "The 411 Linden corner lot proudly displays it's circa 1860 structure, one of the only.examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the village". The home now serves as a museum and the main headquarters for Winnetka's Historical Society.

Winnetka's old-country-style homes have been successful in attracting younger, wealthier generations. According to a poll from city-data.com, the median age of the resident owners in Winnetka is 39 years, with the median income around $167,000 annually. The costs of these homes can range up to the millions, but when one considers these antiques, the prices seem more suitable. Winnetka has really bridged a gap between old and young generations with its warm, family style.

Winnetka Holds an array of awards when it comes to the preservation of its beautiful, aged residences. One of its homes was the winner of Forbes.com's "Home of the Week" contest for its vintage style, old fashioned servant's wings, and traditional elevators. The Burnham log house is also recognized as being well preserved with a spot on the National register of Historic Places. The log house is actually the fourth structure in Winnetka on the National Register.

Winnetka has undeniably been successful in preserving the past. And the present generations seem just as excited to take and pass on the torch of keeping it a beautiful, almost museum-like town. The homes and buildings are a reflection of the simple, yet elegant lives of our forefathers. Winnetka is truly a living piece of America's History.

by Brittney Williams