Historic Landmark Designation Approved for 1129 Curtiss Street

The Village of Downers Grove officially granted historic landmark status to the residence at 1129 Curtiss Street, recognizing the home as a well-preserved and architecturally significant example of early 20th-century residential design.

The designation was approved through Resolution 2024-10569 on January 7, 2025, following a unanimous recommendation from the Historic Preservation and Design Review Board. The decision affirms both the home’s architectural integrity and its contribution to the historic character of the Curtiss Street corridor.

A Classic American Foursquare

Constructed circa 1926, the home is a strong and intact example of the American Foursquare style, a popular housing type from the late 19th century through the 1920s. Known for its practical layout and balanced proportions, the Foursquare is defined by:

• A two-story, square footprint
• A medium-pitched pyramid hip roof
• A prominent front porch
• Horizontal emphasis in design
• Simple, functional interior layout

The residence at 1129 Curtiss Street retains these defining characteristics, including its square form, stucco exterior, and distinctive roofline. The front porch—now partially enclosed—has been thoughtfully incorporated into the home’s living space while maintaining its original presence and scale.

Preservation with Thoughtful Updates

Laura and Matthew Hanssel undertook a comprehensive renovation of the property, carefully balancing modern updates with historic preservation. While the interior has been fully updated—including new plumbing, electrical systems, windows, and a finished basement—the home’s original footprint and exterior appearance remain intact.

Notably, key historic features such as the original interior staircase and hardwood flooring have been preserved, reinforcing the home’s connection to its past. The Historic Preservation and Design Review Board recognized these efforts, noting that the updates were completed with sensitivity to the home’s architectural character.

A Property with Deep Roots

The property is part of the Assessors Subdivision on Curtiss Street, located just west of Main Street and near downtown Downers Grove. This stretch of Curtiss Street contains several of the village’s earliest homes, contributing to its historic significance.

The land traces back to early settler families, including descendants of Henry Puffer, one of Downers Grove’s founding figures. The home itself is strongly believed to have been built around 1926, with Elsie Wittman identified as the first owner. She purchased the lot in 1923, and tax records indicate a significant increase in property value by 1928—evidence of the home’s construction during that period.

Originally addressed as 77 Curtiss Street, the home was renumbered to 1129 Curtiss as part of a 1927 village-wide address standardization aligned with the Chicago system.

A Commitment to Community Character

The landmark designation of 1129 Curtiss Street reflects the Village’s ongoing commitment to preserving its architectural heritage. Community members expressed support during the review process, praising the homeowners’ dedication to maintaining the home’s historic character while adapting it for modern living.

As Downers Grove continues to grow and evolve, recognitions like this help ensure that the village’s historic fabric remains intact—celebrating the homes and stories that define its unique identity.

For more information, see the Village of Downers Grove Landmarking Resolution for this house.