Set along the high topography of the Blue Island Ridge, the Longwood Drive District features a rich architectural heritage with a period of significance spanning from 1870 to 1930. The area evolved from a pioneer route along the Vincennes Trail into a prestigious railroad suburb. Taking advantage of the elevated landscape, which rises sixty feet above most of Chicago, deep wooded lots were platted along the west side of Longwood Drive. This created a unique residential character that remains highly intact today.
The district features a variety of prominent architectural styles and many notable historic structures, including:
Givins Castle (103rd Street and Longwood Drive): Built in 1886 by real estate dealer Robert C. Givins. This three-story limestone structure features towers and battlements and is currently used as the Beverly Unitarian Church.
Robert Evans House (9914 South Longwood Drive): Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908, this home is an excellent example of the Prairie style. Its design was derived from Wright’s concept for “A Fireproof House for $5,000”.
Herbert Graver House (10616 South Longwood Drive): A three-story brick home designed in the English manor style by architect John Heatherington in the 1920s. This historic mansion is now the headquarters of the Ridge Historical Society.
E. L. Roberts House (10134 South Longwood Drive): Built in the late 1880s for a lumber merchant, this imposing three-story Queen Anne residence is well-sited atop the ridge. The building is currently used as the rectory for Saint Barnabas Church.
Horace E. Horton House (10200 South Longwood Drive): A grand, shingle-covered Colonial revival home built in 1889. It was constructed for the founder of the Chicago Bridge and Iron Company.
Beverly Chambers House (10330 South Seeley Avenue): Built in the early 1870s, this Italian Villa-style residence is one of the earliest suburban dwellings on the ridge.
The preliminary staff report:
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