Riverview Historic District: A Glimpse into Kankakee's Past

The Riverview Historic District, nestled along the scenic Kankakee River, stands as the oldest intact residential neighborhood in Kankakee, Illinois. This 78.2-acre area offers a captivating journey through architectural history, showcasing a diverse collection of custom-built and carefully restored homes.The district's origins trace back to Emory Cobb, a Western Union pioneer, who initially used the land as pasture. In 1887, Cobb developed the Riverview Hotel, a luxurious destination for Chicago society. However, tragedy struck in 1897 when the hotel burned down. Cobb then subdivided the property, transforming it into a residential haven that quickly became Kankakee's most desirable address.Merchants, lawyers, and industrialists flocked to Riverview, constructing homes in contemporary high styles. Among these are two notable Prairie School designs by Frank Lloyd Wright: the B. Harley Bradley House and the Warren Hickox House. These homes are considered among Wright's first in the Prairie style. Other architectural styles represented in the district include American Craftsman, Classical Revival, Shingle, Dutch Colonial Revival, and Tudor Revival.Today, the Riverview Historic District is a vibrant community that hosts events such as bicycle races, holiday light strolls, and Easter egg hunts. Visitors can explore the neighborhood on foot, admiring the well-preserved homes and enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Cobb Park, located on the banks of the Kankakee River, serves as the crown jewel of the district.