1013 DOUGLAS AVENUE

HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE

1013 Douglas Avenue was built in 1951 for Ralph and Thelma Frey and built by Sevrin Swaback. Ralph was an insurance agent owning his own business located in the Hubbard Building in downtown Elgin. He married Thelma Rovelstad in 1931 and had one son, James, who went on to become a successful pharmacist.

Before building their dream home, Ralph and Thelma lived at 36 S. Commonwealth for 20 years. During that time, Ralph’s insurance business was thriving which helped Ralph and Thelma build 1013 Douglas. Ralph retired in 1967 and passed away in 1977. Thelma remained in the home until she passed in 1991.

ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

1013 Douglas is a great example of the Colonial Revival Style. This style is timeless as its popularity spans decades and is still used in new construction today. The home is considered a contributing structure to the local significance of this historic district.

TIMELINE OF PREVIOUS OWNERS