1171 HILL AVENUE

HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE

1171 Hill was built in 1949 for Howard Kraft by the Maxon Construction Company.

ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

1171 Hill Avenue is considered a significant property as it is one of two Lustron pre-fabricated homes built in this neighborhood. The Lustron Corporation was based out of Columbus, Ohio and shipped all building materials to the site. The Lustron Corporation was a Chicago Vitreous Enamel Corporation division, and was known for its porcelain enameled steel panels. The steel panels were used not only to clad the home but as well as for the roof. 1171 Hill Avenue is Lustron’s two-bedroom model, #02. The home’s serial number is #1088. The occupancy permit was issued on July 19, 1949 and the house cost $10,650 to build. This type of housing was appealing post WWII as it was quick to build/manufacture at a time where there was major housing shortages. 

For more information on The History of Lustron Homes (1947-1950) please click here.

Sources: 1996 Northeast Neighborhood Historic Resources Survey; Digital Research Library of Illinois History Journal