109 S 8th Ave

109 South Eighth: is a landmark because of its historical and architectural significance. R.G. Emmond commissioned Frank lloyd Wright to design it for him in 1892, and it is known to be one of Wright’s very first designs. Various geometric shapes - the arch, triangle, rectangle, and circle - are present. Note the large leaded glass windows. Wright’s interpretation of the Victoria/Queen Anne style demonstrates his famous tendency to “break up the box” of most home designs. Notice the complicated roofline, the irregular south facade, and the decorative treatment of the entrance. The integrity of this house has been maintained, with the only exterior alterations being the resurfacing of the lower brick and the porch enclosure.

The fact that the Emmond family has resided in this house since 1892 is noteworthy. R.G. Emmond lived here until his death; his daughter, Mrs. K. Thompson, then occupied the house. When Mrs. Thompson moved, her son, E.K. Thompson, took possession of the house. The fact that this house has continuous family ownership has been relevant to its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. R.G. Emmond was the Village’s forester and a Lyons Township school board member. An athletic field formerly at the northwest corner of Cossitt and Brainard Avenues was named for him.