Drew Street — A One-Block Legacy with a Big Story
Tucked into the north side of Downers Grove, Drew Street may be just one block long, but its name carries generations of community history. The street honors the Drew family—Thomas and Olive Drew and their children, Donald and Mildred—whose lives of service, music, and kindness left an enduring mark on our village.
Donald and Mildred Drew
Donald Drew (1904–2006) was a gifted musician who dedicated nearly five decades as organist at the First Congregational Church. He co-founded the Downers Grove Choral Society, accompanied countless performances, gained recognition as a composer of organ works, actively supported organizations that promoted the arts, education, and conservation. In celebration of his 100th birthday, the Downers Grove Choral Society and Music Club presented a concert of his work, and the Village declared September 26, 2004, “Donald J. Drew Day.”
His sister, Mildred “Millie” Drew (1914–2012), shared her brother’s devotion to service. A beloved English teacher and counselor, she also volunteered at Good Samaritan Hospital, supported local arts groups, and was known for her generosity—whether helping organizations or opening her home to stray cats. She was active with the Daughters of the American Revolution and Beta Kappa Gamma Sorority and was deeply admired for her warmth, kindness and willingness to listen.
The Drew House
The Drew family home itself is historic. Built in 1888 by the Drews’ grandfather, Matthew A. and Luella Lyon Roe Lamb, parents of Olive Lamb Drew, the home became the first property in Downers Grove to be landmarked. In 2007 this two-story Gothic Revival residence house was honored under the Village Landmark Preservation Ordinance. Read more about the Drew House here.
A Lasting Impact
For more than 90 years Mildred and Donald Drew lived together in the family home at 5256 Carpenter Street. When Mildred passed away in 2012, six years after her brother Donald, the Drew House was left to the music program of First United Methodist Church—the church of their youth where they had returned in later years. Proceeds from the sale created a fund that supports the church’s music program that continues to this day.
Drew Street may be easy to miss on a map, but its story continues to inspire and enrich the Downers Grove community.