History Walk Site 5: Lincoln School

Lincoln School was built in 1901 on the site of the 1867 two-room Maple School. The handsome, red brick and chocolate sandstone structure has elements from a variety of Victorian-Era revival styles but applied to a symmetrical, Classically inspired body. In 1913 a three-story high school rear addition was erected. Two more additions were made between 1913 and 1939. 

After the bell tower and attic were struck by lightning, the building was remodeled with a flat roof and some of its architectural details were simplified. The Downers Grove Park District purchased the building in 1974 and remodeled the building to accommodate community events, classes, and offices, now known as the Lincoln Center.