Kankakee tour revives access to Wright prairie homes for first time since 1976

For the first time in 50 years, visitors to Kankakee’s Riverview Historic District can enter both of Frank Lloyd Wright’s first prairie-style homes. The B. Harley Bradley House and the neighboring Warren Hickox House will open to the public during the annual Holiday House Walk scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Organizers confirmed that these two residences, designed in 1900, mark the beginning of Wright’s prairie-style period. The not-for-profit group Wright in Kankakee currently stewards the Bradley House. The Hickox House is currently undergoing restoration. The tour also includes St. Rose Church and other properties within the district.

The Riverview Historic District comprises approximately 160 homes built between 1890 and 1950. The neighborhood features distinct architectural styles, oak and maple trees, and views of the Kankakee River from Cobb Park. Funds raised from ticket sales support neighborhood events, promotion, and physical improvements to the area.

The tour begins at the Train Depot located at 199 S. East Ave. in downtown Kankakee. Participants pick up brochures and tickets inside the building. Advance tickets are available for $25. Tickets purchased on the day of the event cost $30. Credit card orders can be placed at riverviewhistoricdistrict.org through Dec. 6. Online orders include a service fee. Buyers can avoid this fee by purchasing in person at four local businesses: Busse & Rieck, The Flower Shoppe, Tholens’ Garden Center, and Ba Da Bloom Flower Shoppe. The house walk chair can be reached at boisvertjune@gmail.com or 815-405-9989 for further questions.