838 BROOK STREET

HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE

David C. Cook, president and founded of the David C. Cook Publishing Company bought a large tract of land for possible expansion of his company. He eventually sold his lots, many of which to his workers. In 1923, Cook deeded lots 15 and 16 to Bernard Colie. Bernard was the foreman of the merchandising department at Cook's publishing company. A mechanics lien, executed as an agreement to build a house, was drawn up at that time. 

The home stayed in the Colie family until 1946 being sold to the next owner who kept the home until 1978. 

ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

838 Brook Street is a modest, one-story bungalow built with Craftsman style elements including exposed rafters and triple vertical window arrangements at the front facade. The home was restored by local resident, Dennis Roxworthy, who has completed several restoration efforts of bungalows throughout Elgin. His houses have a distinctive look with use of bold, contrasting and coordinating exterior colors and have a nicely "finished" look about them.

TIMELINE OF PREVIOUS OWNERS

 

Sources: 1996 Heritage Plaque Application; Audio: TextAloud