Announcing awards for historic status
Announcing awards for historic status
By Bob Adams, Chairman 1, B.I. Historic Preservation Commission
Blue Island has many assets, and among them is the architecture that is all around us. The main reason that the Historical Preservation Commission exists is to preserve the intended appearance that the original architects had in mind. Our landmark homes are gifts to us from the original owners, the builders and of course, the architects.
We can all appreciate these inhabitable works of art each day as we go about our busy lives. Like old friends, they are always there and have been through the good times and the bad times right along with us. We need to count on them always being there as well.
That is why it is always exciting to add a couple of new “friends” to our list of historical properties.
Last year, there were two additions to the list. Both properties are owned by the Malysa family which has a long history with the city of Blue Island. We thank Amy Malysa for coming forth with the request that the HPC grant approval for these beautiful homes.
The first house is located at 2546 Burr Oak Ave. right on our main thoroughfare. Historically referred to as the Charles and Emily Robinson house, this residence was constructed in 1840. The original architect is unknown, but it is believed that the family built it themselves. The Robinsons and young daughter lived there until 1845 at which time it was occupied by Hever S. Rexford, brother of the first settler, Norman Rexford.
Heber’s son, Everett, was a Civil War hero who served as a member of Company A, First Light Artillery. Everett Rexford located the first large brickyard in Blue Island and later secured the right of way for the Chicago and Blue Island Railroad which became the B & O Calumet Terminal. He also served as Village Trustee and President of the Village Board.
The other residence is located at 2451 Oak Street. This home is referred to as a worker’s cottage, however, the architect is unknown. It was built in 1903 by Fred and Mamie Dorman on a stone foundation utilizing the innovative methods called “balloon framing”. Machine sawn lumber cut to standard dimensions as well as machine cut nails, allowed homes to be constructed faster and more economically.
Next time you are hurrying down Burr Oak, slow down a little bit and take a look at the Robinson house. Then take a detour down quiet Oak Street and admire the Dorman house. Say hello to two new friends of the Blue Island Historical Register.