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Riddle Highlands Historic District
About the District
The Riddle Highlands subdivision was platted in 1922. It was formerly a popular driving park. Construction in the Highlands began in the early 1920’s, and by 1930 approximately 50 homes had been built, most of these by the developer, Frank Riddle. On February 15, 1928, Riddle purchased all of the Highlands from the Aurora Real Estate Company. The subdivision is noted for its fine collection of Period Revival style homes.Through the efforts of area residents to preserve the character of their neighborhood, Riddle Highlands was designated a local historic district in 1989. The pillars which adorn all the entrances to Riddle Highlands have been carefully reconstructed to match the original pillars. The white cap is made of terra cotta with a cracked glaze. The pillars provide a stately welcome to all who enter the subdivision.
Details
- Historic Tour Stop - Lake Street (Route 31)/Northgate Shopping Center, S
- Locally Designated Historic District 1989
- PACE Route 523 - North Lake Street
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1. McCullouch House, 1928
One of the original cottages in Riddle Highlands, this charming stone residence was the home of Fox Valley Park District founder Les McCullough.
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2. Doetschman House, 1934
Perhaps the most unusual house in Riddle Highlands, the design of this house was influenced by the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair exhibit “Homes of Tomorrow”.
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3. Garbe House, 1949
This brick and stone home is a Herbert Spieler design, and is indicative of 1950s architect-designed ranch style home.
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4. Riddle House, 1924
Frank Riddle, a prominent real estate operator and developer of this subdivision, was the original owner of this home.
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5. Nickson House, 1929
Built in late 1928, this modern two-story brick structure was influenced by both English and French cottage designs of the 18th century.
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6. Badner House, 1952
Don Tosi designed this Ranch style house. He was the contractor for the Bruce Goff house on Edgelawn Drive, and was inspired by Goff to design as well as construct homes.
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7. Pope House, Circa 1929
This Tudor house was built c.1929, and designed by architect Herbert Spieler.
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8. Wolf House, Circa 1924
One of the earliest homes in Riddle Highlands, this bungalow exemplifies a popular style in American architecture.
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9. Ritzman House, 1929
This sturdy brick home demonstrates influences of both Colonial Revival and English styles, and features irregular brickwork and leaded glass windows.
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10. 350, 351, 355, 356, 361 Lawndale
These English Cottage style homes represent the predominant style in Riddle Highlands.
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11. 336, 337 Sunset Avenue
Both of these homes were constructed in the Colonial Revival style.
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12. Savage House, 1939
This Colonial Revival home may actually be a Sears mail order home built in 1938.
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13. 819 Oak Avenue, 246 Sunset Avenue
These two Norman cottages are interesting to contrast.
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14. Butke House, 1929
Designed by architect Herbert Spieler, this attractive home was built in 1941.
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15. Goldsmith House, 1925
Constructed by L.M. Goldsmith, this Colonial Revival home features an entry porch with a fanlight over the door and sidelights.