Historic Places in Park Ridge Open House

The Kalo Foundation invites everyone to peek into the history of architecture at an Open House of Historic Places in Park Ridge on Sunday, October 1, 2023 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM. Visitors will time-travel through the doors of four significant places: the Raffle House, a Cedar Court cottage designed by internationally known architect Barry Byrne, the home and studio of world renowned artist Alfonso Iannelli, and the building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Jr. as a church.

The Raffle House was conceived as a publicity stunt in 1929 by the Mel Tierney Post No. 249 of the American Legion to grow the city's economy by attracting new residents and business opportunities. More than 60,000 people toured the home for the price of a 50 cent raffle ticket. Open House visitors will see how the past continues to serve present residents.

The Cedar Court home was designed in 1921 to resemble a Cotswold cottage. It brings the charm of the English countryside to Cedar Street so realtor and former mayor William Malone's home across the street would have a pleasant view. The original roofline and interior features are preserved with some updates to serve today's family.

Visitors will walk through the rooms occupied by artists who enhanced Park Ridge and the world with their works when they enter Iannelli's parlor. Original floorboards and nails in the upstairs go back 140-150 years.

Frank Lloyd Wright, Jr.'s Good Shepherd Church now serves the community as the Maine Township Town Hall. Visitors will see the tend-setting ascending lines of the central space and understand how it integrates the built space with the landscape.

Early Bird tickets are available for $20.00 online and in person until September 15, 2023 and $25 after September 15th. . To purchase tickets online go to www.kalofoundation.org or in person at Maine Township Town Hall (cash or check only), 1700 Ballard Road, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased from 12:00 to 2:00 PM October 1, 2023 at $35 if space is available.