Residence for James Severance

In 1893, James Severance moved from Evanston, Illinois to Oberlin Ohio to take a position as Treasurer for Oberlin College.  In September of that year, it was announced that Joseph Silsbee designed a home for him to be constructed of stone, brick and shingle.  

The home is a late example of one of Silsbee's Dutch Colonial designs; a style he was popular for in the mid 1880's.  The long face of the gambrel roof fronts the street and is punctuated by a series of large dormers.  The roof gable-end is asymmetrical, with one side flaring out toward the front to cover a recessed porch.  Another unique detail is a curved shingle corner at each of the dormers.

The interior of the home is a showcase of fine woodworking detail.  A classically detailed fireplace with Delft style tile continues the Dutch Colonial theme.  

The Severance home was the earliest of Silsbee's works in Oberlin.  In later years, Severance would champion Silsbee's designs and as he he developed schemes for expansion of the campus, several memorials, an administration building and dormitory.

Sunday in the Park: A Lincoln Park Field Trip

If you thought you knew the Lincoln Park Conservatory, you're wrong.  Join us next month as part of a great Lincoln Park tour.  One of the tour stops will feature a tour of the Palm House and Conservatory with yours truly.  Learn about the remarkable original conservatory design, its architect and builders.

Sunday in the Park: A Lincoln Park Field Trip

Sunday, June 26, 2011

10 a.m.

The Pleasant Home Foundation invites you to join a Sunday field trip in Lincoln Park on June 26.  During the walk, Christopher Payne will discuss the Lincoln Park Conservatory (J. L. Silsbee, 1890 - 1895); the Lincoln Park Conservancy will lead tours of the Lily Pool (Alfred Caldwell, 1936 - 1938); Paul Steinbrecher, AIA, Interactive Design/Eight Architects, will describe the Comfort Station/Carlson Cottage restoration project; and Harry Soenksen, AIA, Studio Gang will interpret the South Pond project including the boardwalk and pavilion.

This walking tour is a benefit for the Pleasant Home Foundation that operates the George W. Maher-designed John Farson House in Oak Park as a house museum.

The group will gather at the entrance to the Lincoln Park Conservatory at 10 a.m. and end around 1 p.m. at Cafe Brauer.  This walking tour will be held rain or shine (no refunds). 

Cost is $25 per person.  Space is limited and advanced reservations are required.  Call Pleasant Home Foundation at 708-383-2654.