The Wacker House, a historic home in Chicago’s Old Town Triangle Historic District, is at the center of a preservation fight. The home, built in 1874 by brewer Frederick Wacker, has undergone significant exterior alterations in recent years, including the removal of siding, the addition of tree trunks to the front staircase, and extensive alterations to the rear coach house.

Preservation Concerns

Preservationists are concerned that the alterations have compromised the home’s historic character. The Old Town Triangle Association has urged city officials to intervene, citing the city’s landmark ordinance, which requires review by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks before permits can be issued for exterior alterations to designated landmark properties.

The association has reported multiple complaints to the Department of Buildings, including reports of work without plans or permits, paint stripping, and alterations to a landmark building. Despite the complaints and two stop-work orders, the department’s enforcement authority is limited because inspectors have never been able to get inside the home.

City Response

The Department of Buildings has confirmed that it has issued two stop-work orders at the property since 2023 and has responded to multiple complaints. A spokesperson for the department stated that the department continues to monitor the property and is working to ensure that any alterations comply with the city’s landmark ordinance.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.