Historic Home Program
Featured Historic Home
The Eva and Henry Faul House
The home at 5430 Washington Street has been officially recognized as a Historic Home by the Downers Grove Historical Society and the Downers Grove Museum. It earned this designation due to its age and architectural significance. Originally built in 1867, the house was first located at the northwest corner of Curtiss and Washington Streets before being relocated to its current address in 1937. Remarkably, it has undergone no significant alterations since its construction. This home is a classic example of the Italianate architectural style, featuring low-pitched roofs, ornate decorative details crafted from painted wood or rolled zinc, brick or clapboard siding, and tall, round-arched windows with classical influences. Beyond its architectural merit, the home carries cultural and historical significance since it originally stood on the land where the Downers Grove Post Office now sits. In 1936, the U.S. government purchased the property at 920 Curtiss Street for the post office’s
The Downers Grove Museum and the Downers Grove Historical Society are proud to present the Downers Grove Historic Home Program (HHP). This program aims to preserve the history of Downers Grove homes and educate the community about research and preservation.
Recognition of historic homes in Downers Grove started with the Centennial Home Program in 1984. As the name implies, the focus at that time was on homes over 100 years old. In 2016, the program was recast as the Historic Home Program. The program was expanded to include homes that were over 50 years old and improved guidelines for researching homes.
The application form mentioned below describes the requirements that need to be met in order for a home to be recognized as a historic home. After the homeowner completes the application, it is reviewed by Historic Home Program Committee. Upon approval of the application, a plaque for the house is provided free of charge by the Historical Society and Museum.
The Downers Grove Historic Home Program is separate and distinct from the Village of Downers Grove Historic Preservation Program. The Downers Grove Historic Home Program is strictly honorary and does not limit the homeowner from making external alterations to the home. Additionally, the program does not qualify homeowners for any type of financial incentives such as property tax assessment freezes or tax rebates.
Should your home be recognized as a Historic Home?
Have more questions?
Email us: [email protected]
or call the Downers Grove Museum at 630-963-1309
Learn More
Historic Home Program
Centennial Home Program (Since Retired)
Razed Home [Demolished]
