“Did you know the Raber House was almost forgotten?” That’s what I thought when I first heard about it. This magnificent Italianate-style house stands at 5760 South Lafayette Avenue. It’s a Chicago Landmark a true survivor from 1870. It wasn’t built by John Raber as many believe. Instead a Dr Rudolph Walenta built it around 1860. Raber purchased it later in 1862. His name stuck because of a drawing of the house made in 1874.
The Raber House is one of Chicago’s oldest surviving pre-1871 residences. It’s a rare example of a grand country estate in Englewood. Imagine a sprawling six-acre property. This area was once vacant land sold lot by lot. Private residences and businesses filled the area over time. Many have been torn down abandoned. The Raber House however remains.
The house itself is striking. A wooden cupola caps the brick structure. Major alterations occurred in 1894. A third floor and bay windows were added. It was even converted into an apartment building. Even when Raber lived there it was full of people. Lodgers were as common as family members. Its long history reflects diverse lives.
Sadly today the Raber House is an eyesore. It’s a safety hazard. However it is a city landmark. Its designation means it should be restored. The neighborhood has faced hardship. Lack of jobs and opportunities created poverty and crime. Overcrowding from massive housing projects further worsened conditions. This house stands as a reminder of better times a testament to the past.
Someone cared enough to make it a landmark. The question is who cares enough to restore this piece of Chicago’s history? The Raber House waits for its rebirth. A renewed vision for the house and the surrounding area is needed. This will bring vitality back to the neighborhood. It’s a story of resilience perseverance and hope for the future. The future of this landmark rests in our hands. Let’s hope that its beauty shines again.