Wasn’t this house once located a block south? The Harriet F Rees House stands before you a testament to Chicago’s enduring spirit. Built in 1888 for Harriet Frances Rees widow of a real estate developer this Romanesque Revival gem is one of only eight surviving Prairie Avenue houses. Its history is rich. It reflects the city’s dramatic growth and changes.
Imagine the bustling Prairie Avenue of the late 19th century. Millionaires like Marshall Field and George Pullman called this street home. Harriet Rees a Connecticut native chose this location for her elegant residence. She commissioned the prominent architectural firm Cobb and Frost. The house cost a substantial $20000. A significant sum for its time.
Harriet Rees didn’t live long to enjoy her new home. She died there in 1892. The house changed hands several times. It served as a boarding house even a cafe.
But the Harriet F Rees House’s story takes a remarkable turn. In 2014 facing demolition for a new McCormick Place entertainment complex it was saved. The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority made the extraordinary decision to move it. This involved a complex and costly operation. The house was moved a block north and across the street. This move cost approximately $6 million plus $1.9 million for the new lot. It’s one of the heaviest buildings ever moved in America.
The Harriet F Rees House is more than just bricks and mortar. It embodies the resilience of Chicago. It shows the city’s commitment to preserving its rich architectural heritage. It’s a story of survival against the odds. A captivating story. Stand here and feel the weight of history.