Envision a time when railroad executives sought refuge. Old Edgebrook awaits. This historic district whispers tales of a unique past. It stands as a testament to a vision conceived in 1894.
Old Edgebrook is bounded by Central and Devon avenues. The Chicago River and Edgebrook Golf Course also define its borders. Imagine a haven deliberately built near the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railway. Arthur Dixon, a businessman and alderman, platted this railroad suburb.
Many early residents were railway company officials. Their homes reflect diverse architectural styles. Colonial Revival and Queen Anne designs are particularly notable. Picture stately houses lining the streets. They evoke a sense of timeless elegance.
What sets Old Edgebrook apart is its rural ambience. Cook County Forest Preserve surrounds it. This creates an unexpected tranquility within a major metropolitan area. You might forget you are in Chicago.
This neighborhood became a Chicago Historic District in 1988. A historical marker stands at Prescott and Livermore avenues. It is a tribute to Old Edgebrook’s significance. The district’s homes were built in 1894 by various architects.
Consider Mary Burkemeier Quinn Park of Trees. It is the only Park District property in Old Edgebrook. Edward M. Quinn gifted this park in memory of his wife. His will stipulated the demolition of his house. He requested that at least 21 trees be planted.
As you wander through Old Edgebrook, notice the winding, heavily forested streets. The area has just 48 homes. They embody architectural styles popular from the 1890s through the 1940s. Wildlife thrives here. The Edgebrook Golf Course, Cook County Forest Preserve, and the Chicago River surround the area.
Visualize the two roads leading into Old Edgebrook. They are heavily wooded. This adds to the area’s secluded feel. Old Edgebrook remains a cherished landmark. It is a reminder of a bygone era. It shows Chicago’s ability to preserve its unique character.
Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility. Reflect on the vision of Arthur Dixon. Consider the lives of the railway executives who first called this place home. Old Edgebrook offers a glimpse into a quieter, more refined past. It stands as a testament to thoughtful planning and enduring architectural beauty.