ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday, October 4, 2016 7:00pm

City Council Chambers, 2nd Floor North Tower 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120

AGENDA

A. Call Meeting to Order and Roll Call

B. Approval of Minutes 1. September 6, 2016 – Elgin Heritage Commission

C. Recognize Persons Present

D. Plaque Applications a. 1015 Douglas Avenue b. 31 N. Worth Avenue

E. Old Business 1. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Activities 2. Mayor’s Initiative a. Directional Signage, 2017 b. Web Based App (a) Tour Booklets (b) Photographs/Audio

F. New Business 1. December Plaque Awards a. December 6, 2016; 7PM; Elgin History Museum b. Topics for Speaker: (i) Nancy Kimball Home – The history and its rehabilitation c. Plaques to be awarded (a) Three (Possibly Five) Heritage Commission Plaques (b) Four Bungalow Plaques 2. Approval of 2017 EHC and DRSC meeting schedule 3. Potential hearing regarding an appeal to the Heritage Commission

G. Other Business

H. Adjournment THE CITY OF ELGIN IS SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WHO PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND WHO REQUIRED CERTAIN ACCOMMODATIONS IN ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO OBSERVE AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, OR WHO HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE MEETING OR THE FACILITIES, ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, ADA COORDINATOR AT (847) 931‐5620 {TDD (847) 931‐5616} PROMPTLY TO ALLOW THE CITY OF ELGIN TO MAKE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE PERSONS. City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission September 6, 2016

Proposed Minutes

A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Police Department ‐ North Community Room by Chairman John Wiedmeyer.

1. Members Present: George Rowe, Judith Van Dusen, Brian Anderson, Kim Bauer, John Marston, Steve Thoren, John Wiedmeyer

2. Members Absent: Scott Savel and Tom Krebsbach

3. Others Present: Rebecca Hunter, James Zorn

4. City Staff Present: Christen Sundquist, Historic Preservation Planner

B. Approval of Minutes: 1. A motion was made by Commissioner Rowe to approve the August 2, 2016 minutes with the following amendments: Commissioner Van Dusen has not completed her assigned photographs but only has half completed. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Van Dusen. The motion passed 3‐0‐4 (4 abstentions: Bauer, Marston, Anderson, Thoren).

C. Recognize Persons Present: Rebecca Hunter, James Zorn. Chairman Wiedmeyer thanked Rebecca Hunter for all of her time and dedication that she has done while participating on the Heritage Commission.

D. Plaque applications: 1. 844 Brook Street – The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance 8.04; Architectural Significance: 7.79; Current Maintenance: 9.04. A motion was made by Commissioner Thoren to approve awarding the plaque for the property with the inscription that would read H. & I. (Horace and Isadora) James, 1908. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Bauer. The motion passed unanimously.

2. 31 N. Worth Avenue – Chairman Wiedmeyer stated that the architectural and historic significance description in the application were lacking and would like the applicant to provide more descriptive information about the characteristics seen on this home and more about the original owners. The Commission agreed that a more descriptive paragraph should be submitted as the information will be placed on the www.historicelgin.com website. Commissioner Van Dusen and Rebecca Hunter noted to the Owner, James Zorn, that they will help the owners rewrite their architectural and historic descriptions to fit the Heritage Commission’s requests. It was agreed to Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes Page 2 September 6, 2016

withdraw the plaque application for review until the applicant provides a more descriptive paragraph on the architectural and historic significance of the home.

3. Replacement Plaques – Staff noted to the Heritage Commission that there are several owners who have contacted staff regarding their current plaques being damaged and/or unable to see the paint inscription about the property. Commissioner Rowe asked if the Heritage Commission charges for replacement of which, staff commented that owners are not charged an additional fee for replacement.

Commissioner Rowe noted his concern of using the Heritage Commission’s budget for replacement plaques due to the Heritage Commission’s minimal budget. Commissioner Thoren stated that replacement plaques are few and far between but since the budget is a major concern, then setting aside funds to budget for future plaque replacement may be wise. Chairman Wiedmeyer stated that if the plaque only has worn wording, than the plaque may be able to be reused.

Commissioner Van Dusen also noted that the Commission should have a de‐plaquing process as some buildings, that are not located in the Historic Districts, have completed insensitive changes to the exterior of the home that would not give the home high enough points to pass if they were to apply today for a plaque. The Commission agreed to look into this further. Staff stated it may be difficult, though, as this is an honorary program and those properties outside of the Historic Districts are not held up to the standards of those in the Historic Districts.

A motion was made by Commissioner Anderson to approve funding the replacement of the following plaques: 600 E. Chicago, 164 Lincoln Avenue, 1044 Augusta Avenue, 116 Hill Avenue. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Rowe. The motion passed unanimously.

E. Old Business

1. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Activities a. Gifford Park Association‐ Commissioner Rowe stated that the Gifford Park Association’s 35th Annual Historic Housewalk will be held on September 10th and 11th of this year and will be highlighting homes in the Elgin Historic District. b. Elgin History Museum ‐ Commissioner Rowe noted the Elgin History Museum’s Annual Cemetery Walk located at Bluff City Cemetery on September 25th. c. Elgin History Museum – Commissioner Rowe also noted that there will be a fundraiser for the Nancy Kimball Home (302 W. Chicago Street) on Saturday, October 1, 2016 from 12:00PM – 4:00PM on Chicago and Crystal Streets. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes Page 3 September 6, 2016

d. Commissioner Thoren noted that he recently gave tours of Wing Mansion to the Elgin Rotary Club of which, Chief Swoboda, Jerry Turnquist, Bill Briska, and Liz Marston were in attendance as docents. There were 40 people in attendance. e. Commissioner Thoren also noted that he will be giving a presentation of the history of Wing Park on Wednesday, October 5th at 6:00PM at the Lords Park Pavilion.

2. Mayor’s Initiative Ideas a. Directional Signage Update No update – This project will be pushed back until 2017. b. Web Based App 1. Tour Booklets: No update. 2. Photographs: Commissioners Van Dusen noted that she is half way through the photographs assigned to her. She has been keeping track of plaqued homes in the area that do not have a sign. She noted that she will send that list to staff to investigate.

3. Repair of Davidson Sign a. Staff noted to the Commission that the signage at Davidson Park and Gifford Park have been fixed and new paint applied thanks to the Public Works Department.

F. New Business 1. 2016 Current EHC Budget Update a. Approval of Upcoming Expenses – Staff stated that she anticipates a few more plaques to be submitted by the end of the year and that the HistoricElgin website will need to be renewed by the end of the month. A motion was made by Commissioner Thoren to approve a cost of $236.00 for the renewal of the website. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Anderson. The motion passed unanimously. 2. Review of IAHPC Awards Application –Commissioner Thoren noted that applying for the Public Outreach and Education Award for the HistoricElgin website would be a great way to show Illinois what the Elgin Heritage Commission is doing to acknowledge its historic resources. The Commission agreed with Commissioner Thoren’s statement. Commissioner Rowe stated that there are no revisions for the awards nomination and to submit as is. 3. Heritage Commission Presentation of NAPC Award to City Council ‐‐ Commissioner Anderson congratulated the Heritage Commission and staff for the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions Award for the website. Staff noted that it was a group effort and everyone should be proud of this accomplishment. Staff reminded the Heritage Commission that they will be presenting the award to the Mayor, City Council and the City Manager on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at 7:00PM.

Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes Page 4 September 6, 2016

G. Other Business None

H. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Rowe to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Thoren and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Christen Sundquist, Historic Preservation Planner Community Development Department

Approved: Scoring Guidelines for Heritage Commission Plaque Applications

Introduction

The Elgin Heritage Commission plaque program recognizes buildings with both historic and architectural merit. The program is intended to promote preservation and awareness of Elgin’s past. The plaque is an acknowledgment of the owner’s efforts to research and document the building’s history and to maintain these structures as worthy examples of architectural style. The buildings and owners which receive plaques serve as role models for the larger community to emulate. The buildings become “reference books” for use in teaching others about our architectural and cultural heritage.

There are a large number of “kit” or “catalog” homes in Elgin. These buildings were originally constructed using precut lumber and other materials largely supplied by a single source. The buildings were marketed through catalogs and sold by Sears, Roebuck and Company and other firms. The Heritage Commission plaque program recognizes these homes with a special plaque that documents the name of the original owner, the date of construction and the model name.

The following guidelines help to delineate the criteria used to evaluate a building and merit receiving the special status of being awarded a plaque.

Scoring Guidelines

The scoring guidelines use three indices to assess an application. These cover the following considerations: 1. Architectural Considerations 2. Historical Considerations 3. Maintenance Considerations

Each of these indices has a point scale from 0 to 10. To receive a plaque, an applicant must score 6 or higher on each of three indices. In addition, the building must have been constructed more than fifty years ago.

Architectural Considerations

10 - A superior example of an established architectural style. The key elements of the style are both present and well executed in the design. There is no, or very little, evidence of architectural details, or other features (such as antennas, mail boxes, storm doors/windows, gutters/down spouts, etc.) that are inconsistent with the style or original appearance of the building. This score maybe awarded to an exceptionally well executed building of vernacular design, if all the architectural details and other features are consistent with period in which it was built. From the exterior, the building appears to be in original, as built, condition.

8 - A very good example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. The building may have alterations from its original appearance, such as additions, modified porches, changes to the windows, or missing architectural elements, etc., if these are changes are consistent with the overall style of the building, or, if not consistent, they have minimal impact on the building’s appearance.

6 - A good example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. Alterations maybe present but do not substantially obscure or compromise the style or original design of the building. Examples of these alternations may include additions or changes to the porches that are not consistent with the original design; Use of substitute siding in soffits and fascia; Use of substitute siding if the appearance and exposure of the siding is consistent with the original look and other details, such as corner boards, window/door moldings, etc. are present and appropriate to the style of the building.

4 - A fair example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. Alterations are present and while not entirely compromising the original design they noticeably detract from the original appearance. Examples of these detracting features are: Key architectural elements of the style are missing or no longer visible; Additions and alterations are not in character with the original style or age of the building; The use of substitute siding has obscured corner boards, window/door moldings, etc. The design or application of substitute siding is not consistent with that used when the building was constructed, for example, excessively wide exposures, or ship-lap, or board and batten profiles. Or, the color scheme greatly varies from those typical of the era in which the building was constructed.

2 - A poor example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. The building may have had very little architectural merit when constructed. Or, the building may have had subsequent additions and alterations which not consistent with the age of the building or have obscured many of the original architectural details. Or, the building has substitute siding made from asbestos, asphalt or a tar paper based products.

Historical Considerations

10 - A building associated with one or more individuals who played a leading role in Elgin’s history (e.g., significant community leaders, business persons, artists, educators, builders/tradesmen, etc.) Or, a building that was the site of one or more significant historic events. Or, a building that by virtue of its use over time for either residential, commercial, institutional or industrial purposes, was associated with of a very large number of citizens. Or, a building that has a significant symbolic connection with city’s identity (e.g., the Tower Building, Observatory, high schools, colleges, major institutions, prominent religious, commercial or public buildings.)

8 - A building associated with one or more persons who were representative of Elgin’s history but may not merit individual attention in an historical account, (e.g., watch workers, early settlers, small business operators, professionals, minor community leaders, etc.). Or, a building which was the site of one or more minor historic events. Or, a building that by virtue of its use over time was associated with many citizens (e.g., large churches, smaller size schools, public or commercial buildings). Or, a building that has some notable connection with the city’s identity (e.g., Teeple barn, Armory, Professional Building, etc.).

6 - A building that is typical of the era in which it was constructed, or representative of larger developments (e.g., a home in specific subdivision or area which was developed more or less as a whole). Or, a building that was used over a number of years by small groups of citizens (e.g., small churches, private clubs, etc.). Or, a building that was associated with one family for a long period of time. Or, a building that has some association with the city’s identity (e.g. in a prominent or landmark location).

4 - A building which contributes only to a small degree to the larger historical context of the area in which it exists.

2 - A building not associated with any of the historical or cultural conditions above. Or, while of an age eligible to receive a plaque, exists in isolation from a larger historical context (e.g., an in fill building from an era different than its surrounding structures).

Maintenance Considerations

10 - An exceptionally well maintained building showing virtually no signs of deterioration or in need of immediate maintenance or care. The surrounding landscape is also well maintained and complimentary to the building.

8 - A very well maintained building that may show some minor indications of needing periodic maintenance, such as, touch up paint, small scale tuck pointing, very minor carpentry work, etc. The surrounding landscape is nicely maintained.

6 - An adequately maintained building that may be in need of periodic maintenance such as minor painting, simple carpentry work, or repair/replacement of some secondary features such as gutters, screens, smaller size decorative elements which do not greatly detract from the overall appearance of the building. The surrounding landscape is adequately maintained.

4 - A building noticeably in need of periodic maintenance which may include large areas of faded or peeling paint, worn out stairs, porches, siding or roofs, broken windows or doors, damaged or obviously missing architectural elements, etc. And/or, the surrounding landscape is poorly maintained and is such a condition that it noticeably detracts from the building’s appearances.

2 - A building in poor repair. One or more major areas needing immediate attention to prevent further rapid deterioration of the overall structure. And/or, the landscaping is in very poor condition, e.g. debris, overgrown vegetation, dead limbs or plants or large numbers of weeds.

Lineage of Ownership – 1015 Douglas Avenue

William H. and Mathilda H. Abelmann – 1922‐1957

Virginia M. Libby – 1957‐1961

Dr. Richard F. Whitlock – 1961‐1994

Robert & Christine Brannon – 1994 to 2014

Wells Fargo Bank—20014‐2015

Ruben and Magdalena Villanueva ‐2015 –Present

William Henry Abelmann was born in Palatine, IL on February 22, 1883. He passed away on February 26, 1964 in Los Angeles County, California. He was an insurance agent in Elgin specializing in insurance for fire and tornado damage. He married Mathilda H. (nee Meyer) Abelmann, who was born on April 21, 1878 in Illinois. Mathilda’s father, Mark Meyer, emigrated from Prussia in 1868 and her mother, Sarah Meyer, emigrated from Germany in 1874. Mathilda passed away on October 23, 1968 in Los Angeles County, California.

The Abelmanns moved to California in 1957, possibly to be closer to their son, William Weldon Abelmann. Their son was born on February 11, 1915. William W. became a real estate consultant and appraiser and was a member of the Appraisal Institute, Institute of Real Estate Management, Vice President of the Kiwanis in 1957, the Masons and Lambda Alpha. He went to Northwestern University and graduated in 1938 with a Bachelor of Science in Speech and an honorary Masters from Western States University in 1984. He was the owner of William W. Abelmann Associates in La Canada, California from 1939.

Virginia M. Libby was from Louisiana born on October 5, 1943 with maiden name of Virginia Marshal. Mrs. Libby was married to Jules Libby, a prominent business man in Elgin who was President of the Libby Neon Product Company. Mr. Libby came to Elgin as a small child with his parents Hyman Leibovitz and Kate Leibovitz. He attended Grant School and graduated from Elgin High School. Shortly after graduating, he started the Libby Electric Company on South Grove Avenue. He later founded the Libby Neon Products Company at 630 Congdon Ave. Mr. Libby passed away at the age of 41 following a short illness, leaving Mrs. Libby a widower with three young children: Dale (3 years‐old), Jeffrey (2 years‐old) and an infant daughter (name unknown). At the time of his death, the family had been living at 940 Douglas Ave. Mrs. Libby appears to have continued to manage the Libby Engineering Company, as later records have her listed as the President and Treasurer.

Dr. Richard F. Whitlock was born on September 14, 1919 in Granite City, Illinois to Reverend Omar and Hazel (nee Farmer) Whitlock. Dr. Whitlock graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and practiced obstetrics and gynecology delivering over 9,000 babies. He was a World War II Army veteran and served as a battalion and regimental surgeon during the war. He was awarded the Silver Star and three Bronze Stars elevating to the rank of a major. He married Ann Wolf in 1946. She was born on October 23, 1914 and passed away on November 15, 1961. He then remarried to Jean (nee Wolf) Knight in 1962 but were later divorced. Dr. Whitlock had one son, Richard, Jr., and three daughters, Patricia, Nora and Sara.

Robert King Brannon was born on October 14, 1961 and was married to Christine Brannon. Mr. Brannon appears have managed a business from home called, Closet Organizing Systems. It is believed that the couple had six children.

Ruben Villanueva was born in Elgin, shortly after his parents’ arrival to Elgin from Puerto Rico. He graduated from Elgin High School in 1993. Dr. Magdalena Perez‐Villanueva was also born in Elgin, soon after her parents’ arrival to Elgin from Mexico. She graduated from Elgin High School in 1996. Mr. Villanueva and Dr. Perez‐Villanueva started dating while in high school. They moved to Austin, Texas for six years while Dr. Perez‐Villanueva was pursuing her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. They married on March 23, 2007 at St. Laurence Catholic Church and soon after returned to Elgin to start their family. They have two daughters, Amalia and Olivia. The first house they bought in Elgin was located at 1024 Prospect Blvd. Mr. Villanueva has made a career of managing contracts for staffing agencies. Dr. Perez‐Villanueva works for Clinical Research Organizations and as a clinician at a group practice in Schaumburg.

Scoring Guidelines for Heritage Commission Plaque Applications

Introduction

The Elgin Heritage Commission plaque program recognizes buildings with both historic and architectural merit. The program is intended to promote preservation and awareness of Elgin’s past. The plaque is an acknowledgment of the owner’s efforts to research and document the building’s history and to maintain these structures as worthy examples of architectural style. The buildings and owners which receive plaques serve as role models for the larger community to emulate. The buildings become “reference books” for use in teaching others about our architectural and cultural heritage.

There are a large number of “kit” or “catalog” homes in Elgin. These buildings were originally constructed using precut lumber and other materials largely supplied by a single source. The buildings were marketed through catalogs and sold by Sears, Roebuck and Company and other firms. The Heritage Commission plaque program recognizes these homes with a special plaque that documents the name of the original owner, the date of construction and the model name.

The following guidelines help to delineate the criteria used to evaluate a building and merit receiving the special status of being awarded a plaque.

Scoring Guidelines

The scoring guidelines use three indices to assess an application. These cover the following considerations: 1. Architectural Considerations 2. Historical Considerations 3. Maintenance Considerations

Each of these indices has a point scale from 0 to 10. To receive a plaque, an applicant must score 6 or higher on each of three indices. In addition, the building must have been constructed more than fifty years ago.

Architectural Considerations

10 - A superior example of an established architectural style. The key elements of the style are both present and well executed in the design. There is no, or very little, evidence of architectural details, or other features (such as antennas, mail boxes, storm doors/windows, gutters/down spouts, etc.) that are inconsistent with the style or original appearance of the building. This score maybe awarded to an exceptionally well executed building of vernacular design, if all the architectural details and other features are consistent with period in which it was built. From the exterior, the building appears to be in original, as built, condition.

8 - A very good example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. The building may have alterations from its original appearance, such as additions, modified porches, changes to the windows, or missing architectural elements, etc., if these are changes are consistent with the overall style of the building, or, if not consistent, they have minimal impact on the building’s appearance.

6 - A good example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. Alterations maybe present but do not substantially obscure or compromise the style or original design of the building. Examples of these alternations may include additions or changes to the porches that are not consistent with the original design; Use of substitute siding in soffits and fascia; Use of substitute siding if the appearance and exposure of the siding is consistent with the original look and other details, such as corner boards, window/door moldings, etc. are present and appropriate to the style of the building.

4 - A fair example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. Alterations are present and while not entirely compromising the original design they noticeably detract from the original appearance. Examples of these detracting features are: Key architectural elements of the style are missing or no longer visible; Additions and alterations are not in character with the original style or age of the building; The use of substitute siding has obscured corner boards, window/door moldings, etc. The design or application of substitute siding is not consistent with that used when the building was constructed, for example, excessively wide exposures, or ship-lap, or board and batten profiles. Or, the color scheme greatly varies from those typical of the era in which the building was constructed.

2 - A poor example of an established architectural style or vernacular design. The building may have had very little architectural merit when constructed. Or, the building may have had subsequent additions and alterations which not consistent with the age of the building or have obscured many of the original architectural details. Or, the building has substitute siding made from asbestos, asphalt or a tar paper based products.

Historical Considerations

10 - A building associated with one or more individuals who played a leading role in Elgin’s history (e.g., significant community leaders, business persons, artists, educators, builders/tradesmen, etc.) Or, a building that was the site of one or more significant historic events. Or, a building that by virtue of its use over time for either residential, commercial, institutional or industrial purposes, was associated with of a very large number of citizens. Or, a building that has a significant symbolic connection with city’s identity (e.g., the Tower Building, Observatory, high schools, colleges, major institutions, prominent religious, commercial or public buildings.)

8 - A building associated with one or more persons who were representative of Elgin’s history but may not merit individual attention in an historical account, (e.g., watch workers, early settlers, small business operators, professionals, minor community leaders, etc.). Or, a building which was the site of one or more minor historic events. Or, a building that by virtue of its use over time was associated with many citizens (e.g., large churches, smaller size schools, public or commercial buildings). Or, a building that has some notable connection with the city’s identity (e.g., Teeple barn, Armory, Professional Building, etc.).

6 - A building that is typical of the era in which it was constructed, or representative of larger developments (e.g., a home in specific subdivision or area which was developed more or less as a whole). Or, a building that was used over a number of years by small groups of citizens (e.g., small churches, private clubs, etc.). Or, a building that was associated with one family for a long period of time. Or, a building that has some association with the city’s identity (e.g. in a prominent or landmark location).

4 - A building which contributes only to a small degree to the larger historical context of the area in which it exists.

2 - A building not associated with any of the historical or cultural conditions above. Or, while of an age eligible to receive a plaque, exists in isolation from a larger historical context (e.g., an in fill building from an era different than its surrounding structures).

Maintenance Considerations

10 - An exceptionally well maintained building showing virtually no signs of deterioration or in need of immediate maintenance or care. The surrounding landscape is also well maintained and complimentary to the building.

8 - A very well maintained building that may show some minor indications of needing periodic maintenance, such as, touch up paint, small scale tuck pointing, very minor carpentry work, etc. The surrounding landscape is nicely maintained.

6 - An adequately maintained building that may be in need of periodic maintenance such as minor painting, simple carpentry work, or repair/replacement of some secondary features such as gutters, screens, smaller size decorative elements which do not greatly detract from the overall appearance of the building. The surrounding landscape is adequately maintained.

4 - A building noticeably in need of periodic maintenance which may include large areas of faded or peeling paint, worn out stairs, porches, siding or roofs, broken windows or doors, damaged or obviously missing architectural elements, etc. And/or, the surrounding landscape is poorly maintained and is such a condition that it noticeably detracts from the building’s appearances.

2 - A building in poor repair. One or more major areas needing immediate attention to prevent further rapid deterioration of the overall structure. And/or, the landscaping is in very poor condition, e.g. debris, overgrown vegetation, dead limbs or plants or large numbers of weeds.

History of 31 N. Worth Ave., Elgin, Il 1910

Lot 14 in the northwest corner of the subdivision called Washington Heights is deeded by the City of Elgin in 1893. William Grote buys 17 lots including lot 14 from the City for the sum of $2030. 2 houses are built in 1893‐4 on North Worth Ave, 37 and 11 N. Worth. Tony (Roco) Salamone and his wife Alma buy the lot for $300 on November 10th, 1909. Alma brother Fred Bolenstenger takes out a loan for $1800 on November 17th, 1909. 31 N. Worth is built in 1910, according to City records. Alama's mother, Minnie also lives at 31 N. Worth Ave. Roco is a worker at the watch factory along with Alma's brother Fred. Tony's Father and his Mother immigrated from Italy in 1890. Roco was born in Italy in 1883. His wife was born in Wisconsin in 1885. Fred Bolenstenger would die on July 27, 1914 and his Mother Minnie would die on April 16, 1925. Both are buried in Bluff City Cemetery. Roco and his wife sell 31 N. Worth in 1926.

Dr. Martin H. Hubrig (1889‐1967) and his wife Ida buy 31 N. Worth. Dr. Hubrig would be only 1 of 10 doctors in Elgin in 1925 which had a population of about 30,000. His office was at 165 E. Highland, in Elgin. Ida would die on Dec 14, 1928. Dr. Hubrig would later remarry Mildred. Martin Hubrig would sell 31 N. Worth in June of 1941 and move to 485 Wing St. They would also move again to 909 W. Highland. He and his first wife are buried in Buff City Cemetery.

Carl and Ruth Lind would buy 31 N. Worth from Dr. Hubrig in 1941. Carl had been drafted in 1919 after working as a book keeper for John F. Campbell Co. After the War, Carl would work as an inspector at the Elgin Watch Factory. His wife Ruth would raise 4 children. Carl's Father Axel and Mother Josephine immigrated from Sweden and his Dad worked for the Railroad. Ruth would die in 1982 and Carl moved to the Baker Hotel in St. Charles and later to a nursing home in Naperville near his children. He would die in 1988.

Following the death of his wife, Carl agrees to sell 31 N. Worth to Laura and James Zorn in June of 1983. Carl would act as the lender for 3 years while interests were at an all time high. James worked as a professional photographer with his office in Northbrook, Il. Laura work in retail and at one point worked at the Akeman's Department store as a handbag and accessories buyer. James would later work at RR Donnelley office in Elgin as a photographer. Laura and James are the current owners.

31 N. Worth was built in 1910. It is a Prairie style cube or otherwise known as an American Foursquare. The American Foursquare typology became a common building type at the turn of the 20th century and into its first decades. It reflects simplicity and symmetry and was a relief from the "busy‐ness" of the proceeding Victorian era. 31 N. Worth Avenue is a square, two story house with a hipped roof that features a central gable with a raking cornice (cornice on a pediment) at the front façade and small hipped dormers on its sides. The second and first stories are separated by a horizontal band. The entire home is clad in narrow, clapboard siding that also emphasizes horizontality. A small hipped roof porch that covers half of the width of the façade is enclosed but exhibits the same narrow, clapboards found throughout the home.

The home contains original one‐over‐one double‐hung windows with a unique divided‐lite semicircular window centrally located at the front gable.

Sears was selling houses starting in 1908, but it wasn't until 1916 that the houses were "precut". The house would have been plans plus material list. The 1912 Sears Great Book claims to have 1340 homes to satisfied customers. Based on that information, 31 N. Worth could be one of the earliest Sears Houses in Elgin. None of the house has been changed on the outside. The original windows and doors are all in place. The interior of the house has had only minor changes and some modern upgrades. None of the original, oak woodwork, flooring and stair case have ever been painted. Of note is the Icebox built in the kitchen with a door outside for ice and a door on the side of the porch for milk delivery.

Tony (Roco) Salamone and Elma ‐ Tony worked at the Watch Factory‐ 1919‐1926‐first owner

Fred Bolenenstengel ‐ Elma's brother and Minnie, her Mother also live in home.

Dr. M.H. Hubrig and wife Mildred ‐ 1926 ‐1941‐Doctor is one of only 10 doctors in Elgin.

Carl and Ruth Lind ‐ 1941 ‐ 1983 ‐ Carl was inspector at the Watch Factory

Laura and James Zorn ‐ 1983 to present ‐ Laura worked in retail, James a professional photographer

2001

528 Ashland Avenue

816 Augusta Avenue

108 N Channing Street

273 N College

11‐15 Douglas Avenue

514 Douglas Avenue

665 Forest Avenue

40 N Gifford Street

54 S Liberty Street

1200 Logan Avenue

731 N Spring Street

845 N Spring Street

1011 N Spring Street

320 Washburn Street

2000

946 Bellevue Avenue

168 N Commonwealth Avenue

52 Crighton Avenue

573 Division Street

560 Douglas Avenue

716 Douglas Avenue

155 S Gifford Street

52 Hamilton Avenue

160 Hill Avenue 429 Jay Street

665 Lillie Street

217 Lincoln Avenue

705 Linden Avenue

1051 Logan Avenue

1178 Logan Avenue

212 Lovell Street

1127 Morton Avenue

621 Oak Street

1180 Preston Avenue

376 River Bluff Road

737 N Spring Street

402 S State Street

1999

470 Arlington

943 Bellevue

568 Brook Street

201‐203 E Chicago Street

434 E Chicago Street

721 Douglas Avenue

722 Douglas Avenue

733 Douglas Avenue

900 Douglas Avenue

912 Douglas Avenue

1025 Douglas Avenue 36 N DuBois Avenue

43 DuPage Court

650 Lillie Street

670 Lillie Street

1170 Logan Avenue

870 Mill Street

352 North Street

421 Oak Street

470 Park Street

232 Standish Street

309 Standish Street

258 Vincent place

327 Walnut Avenue

1998

418 Arlington Avenue

631 Center Street

781 W Chicago Street

110 N Commonwealth Avenue

53 Crighton Avenue

54 S Crystal Avenue

705 Douglas Avenue

118 Hamilton Avenue

285 Hamilton Avenue

287 Hamilton Avenue

159 Hill Avenue 441 Lawrence Avenue

507 S Liberty Street

544 S Liberty Street

625 Lillie Street

415 Park Street

444 Park Street

650 Park Street

623 Prospect Boulevard

1997

838 Douglas Avenue

205 N Gifford Street

1034 Hill Avenue

385 S Liberty Street

408 S Liberty Street

335 Marguerite Street

524 Mill Street

340 Moseley Street

626 Orange Street

320 N Spring Street

402 N Spring Street

1996

1038 Bellevue Avenue

838 Brook Street

903 Cedar Avenue

396 Division Street 471 Division Street

1017 Duncan Avenue

412 Fulton Avenue

28 N Gifford Street

467 N Grove Avenue

508 N Grove Avenue

515 N Grove Avenue

845 N Grove Avenue

628 W Highland Avenue

508 Hill Avenue

68 S Jackson Street

258 N Liberty Street

473 Park Street

637 Prospect Boulevard

381 River Bluff Road

527 Villa Street

1995

714 Douglas Avenue

907 Douglas Avenue

870 W Highland Avenue

118 S Porter Street

332 River Bluff Road

522 River Bluff Road

678‐680 South Street

833 N Spring Street 1994

1024 Bellevue Avenue

819 W Chicago Street

821 Douglas Avenue

15 N Porter Street

326 River Bluff Road

539 Ryerson Avenue

1993

470 E Chicago Street

653 Douglas Avenue

416 Fulton Street

107 E Highland Avenue

972 W Highland Avenue

144 Hill Avenue

600 Margaret Place

490 Park Street

827 Prospect Boulevard

268 Seneca Street

324 Vincent Place

226 Wing Park Boulevard

1992

467 E Chicago Street

849 Douglas Avenue

10 Hamilton Avenue

223 Henry Street 414 Hill Avenue

3 N Liberty Street

358 North Street

18 Villa Court

1991

500 Arlington Avenue

304 Division Street

403 Division Street

640 Eastview Street

569 Franklin Boulevard

377 Fulton Street

391 Fulton Street

420 Mountain Street

671 Oak Street

425 Park Street

503 Park Street

582 Park Street

309 Wing Park Boulevard

1990

619 Center Street

37 S Geneva Street

115 Hill Avenue

163 Hill Avenue

489 Mary Place

312 Vincent Place 1989

570 Addison Street

326 E Chicago Street

664 Grace Street

666 Chicago Street

950 W Highland Avenue

238 McClure Avenue

565 Park Street

116 N Porter Street

426 Prairie Street

16 Rugby Place

533 St. Charles Road

254 Villa Street

312 Watch Street

1988

1044 Augusta Avenue

40 Center Street

15 N Channing Avenue

162 College Street

420 Fulton Avenue

401 Jefferson Avenue

530 S Liberty Street

618 Linden Avenue

21 N Porter Street

703 Rayond Street 12 Rugby Place

506 Sherman Avenue

1987

210 Academy Place

214 Academy Place

100 Center Street

310 E Chicago Street

528 E Chicago Street

364 Division Street

261 DuPage Street

141 Hill Avenue

391 Jefferson Avenue

426 S Liberty Street

16 N Liberty Street

258 Lovell Street

636 Park Street

24 N Porter Street

106 N Porter Street

115 N Porter Street

214 S State Street

287 Vincent Place

409 Wing Park Boulevard

1986

417 Algona Avenue

70 S Chapel Street 570 E Chicago Street

600 E Chicago Street

321 Division Street

826 Douglas Avenue

36 S Du Bois Avenue

302 Fulton Street

126 Hill Avenue

328 Mountain Street

71 Park Row

71‐73 Park Row

350 Park Street

376 Prairie Street

803 N Spring Street

450‐454 Stella Street

259 Villa Street 2017 MEETING SCHEDULE

Elgin Heritage Commission & Design Review Subcommittee

The Elgin Heritage Commission holds its Regular Meetings on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m., City Council Chambers, second floor, North Tower of the Elgin Municipal Building.

The Design Review Subcommittee are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday’s of every month at 6:00 p.m., City Council Chambers, second floor, North Tower of the Elgin Municipal Building.

First Tuesday Second Tuesday Fourth Tuesday Heritage Commission Design Review Design Review Regular Meeting Subcommittee Subcommittee 7:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

January 3 January 10 No Meeting ** February 7 February 14 No Meeting ** March 7 March 14 March 28 April 4 April 11 April 25 No meeting * May 9 May 23 June 6 June 13 June 27 No meeting**** July 11 July 25 August 1 August 8 August 22 September 5 September 12 September 26 October 3 October 10 October 24 November 7 November 14 November 28 No meeting * December 12 No meeting **

* Heritage Commission meetings will not be held in May and December; due to special events.

** Design Review Subcommittee will not meet on the 4th Tuesday in January, February or December unless multiple agenda items are brought forth for review.

**** Due to the first Tuesday meeting in July being a holiday, the July Heritage Commission meeting will not be held unless multiple agenda items are brought forth for review. The Heritage Commission will approve to hold a meeting in July and determine a meeting date at their regular scheduled meeting in June.

Each meeting is subject to change of location. The agenda will reflect the location for the current meeting.

Note: COA applications and supporting information for Design Review Subcommittee meetings need to be submitted at least ten days prior to the meeting.

Contact Person: Christen Sundquist Historic Preservation Planner (847) 931-6004