861 Hill Avenue, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

In 1865, John Smith built a farmhouse. He probably didn't imagine that people would still be discussing its architecture more than 160 years later. He needed a house. History, as it turns out, had other plans. Today, 861 Hill Avenue is a beautiful example of vernacular architecture, shaped by the needs and traditions of the people who built it. What began as an ordinary farmhouse has acquired an extraordinary character over more than 160 years. With 2,559 square feet, the house is considerably more spacious than its nineteenth-century origins might suggest. Sunlight pours through the windows of the living room, while French doors lead into a separate dining room. Beyond it, a bright four-season room offers a lovely setting for work, reading, or enjoying the seasons. The kitchen pairs white cabinets, granite counters, and stainless steel appliances with original wood floors dating to 1865. Their rich grain and weathered character tell a story that no amount of artificial distressing...