635 BROOK STREET
HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE
635 Brook Street was built for Herman and Sophia Plote in 1925. Herman was born in 1891 in Illinois living in Plato until he married Sophia in 1915. They lived in Burlington with their two children until moving to Elgin and building 635 Brook Street in 1925. *Herman was a driver for the Wait-Ross Allanson Funeral Home. He remained in the trade until his retirement as the Funeral Director and Embalmer at Stout Funeral Home here in Elgin.
After 16 years of ownership, the Plotes sold the home to unmarried sisters; Lena and Mary Weichert. The sisters lived together so long that it was unsurprising when they passed away only months apart. They left the home to their other sister, Bertha, who remained in the home until 1966.
ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
635 Brook Street is an excellent example of an arts and crafts style bungalow. It is one-story with a hipped roof with 3 hipped dormers, and clapboard siding that contrasts nicely with the brick. Arts and Crafts style is exemplified on this home with its projecting eaves, 3, 4, and 5-over-1 double-hung windows and the stunning nine beveled glass light front door.
TIMELINE OF PREVIOUS OWNERS
Sources: 2018 Heritage Plaque Application; Audio: TextAloud