For the first time this century, the Jesse T. Blake house located at 2023 West 108th Place in the Ridge Historic District of Chicago seeks new caretakers. Constructed in 1896 on two lots atop a hill in horse thief hollow, this Harry Hale Waterman architecturally significant gem has had but a handful of owners. Will you be the fortunate one to call this "home?" This Norman French Revival has starred in the Beverly Home Tour, received a City of Chicago Landmark Award, and watched over countless bike races and runs up the hill. It has been featured in the AIA Guide to Chicago, a Chicago Art Institute exhibit, numerous local media stories and much more. Runners of the Ridge Run on Memorial Day always share compliments and express their love for the home. What's not to love? The historic home retains a rare mix of many original features while being updated for the sophisticated family of today. There are four bedrooms, two are ensuite making it perfect for a nanny or multi-generational living. There is another full bath and two half baths. (Just wait until you see the one in the man-cave!) The updated designer kitchen features custom WoodMode cabinetry and gorgeous soapstone countertops to honor the home's history. The dual fuel 6 burner range will delight the chef and the baker. You'll find heated floors in the kitchen, both ensuite bathrooms and the man-cave. History buffs will delight in knowing that the original blueprints are also available. How many 130 year old homes come with original plans? The award winning addition includes leaded windows to match the original windows throughout as well as beams to honor the originals in the massive living room with stone fireplace. Another fireplace graces the light filled dining room. The asphalt roof was replaced with period appropriate cedar shingles. Copper gutters and downspouts have replaced the aluminum. The entire house and two-and-a-half car garage (with a loft) have all just been painted. You will discover many details such as arched doorways and decorative corbels mix history and modern in a most delightful way. What will be your favorite discovery? What you won't notice right away but you will definite appreciate are all of the incredible infrastructure improvements to the home. Well over $250, 000 has been invested in the Generac whole-house generator, the Perma-Seal waterproofing system, asbestos abatement, multiple new HVAC and boiler systems. All the heavy lifting has been done. Working from home? The generator means no disruptions. You get to enjoy the three outdoor patios, mature landscaping and the pride of ownership of one of Chicago's award winning historic properties. The Metra Rock Island station is a short block away. You have a choice of fantastic public, private and catholic schools nearby. Many parks are within walking distance, not to mention the amazing neighbors on the block. What are you waiting for? See the Chicago Magazine article featuring this home in the Additional Information link.
