Elbridge G. Keith House: A Prairie Avenue Landmark

The Elbridge G. Keith House, situated at 1900 S Prairie Ave in Chicago, stands as a remarkable survivor from the city's opulent past. Constructed between 1870 and 1871 for Elbridge Gerry Keith, a prominent figure in Chicago's banking and civic circles, the house is a prime example of Second Empire architecture. Keith, along with his brothers, made significant contributions to the city, with Elbridge himself being a founder of the Metropolitan National Bank (later part of the First National Bank of Chicago) and active in various civic roles.Prairie Avenue, once dubbed 'Millionaires' Row,' was the exclusive residential address for Chicago's elite in the late 19th century. The Keith House is one of the few remaining mansions that evoke the grandeur of this era. The house's design, originally by John W. Roberts, features a three-story limestone facade and a distinctive mansard roof, which was added in the 1880s. This architectural style was popular among the wealthy residents of Prairie Avenue during that time.Over the years, the Elbridge G. Keith House has served various purposes. After the Keith family moved out in 1920, it was used as office space for publishing companies. In 1974, it was purchased by architect Wilbert Hasbrouck and his wife Marilyn, who opened the Prairie Avenue Bookshop, a renowned architectural bookstore. Later, in 1978, journalists Steven Pratt and Joy Darrow acquired the house and undertook extensive restoration work. Today, the Keith House stands as a reminder of Chicago's golden age and the families who shaped the city's history.