CHARLES DAWES HOUSE – 225 Greenwood St., Evanston, IL 60201, (847) 475-3410,
evanstonhistorycenter.org
Q-Tips say: Go and enjoy. They are open daily from 1 to 4 PM. Docent tours on on Wed. Th. Fri. at 1, 2, 3 o’ clock (call before going to be sure the docent tour is on). Parking is FREE – FREE is GOOD by the park area facing the lake. Full of history and the life and times of Charles Dawes vice president under Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President. Lawyer, a co-winner of the Nobel Peace Prize for his work on World War I reparations. Dawes was a self-taught pianist and a composer. His composition, “Melody in A Major” in 1912 became a well-known piano and violin song, and it was played at many official functions as his signature tune. It was transformed into the pop song “It’s All in the Game.” Decided to join the Armed Forces when he was in his late forties. The commanders welcomed him to assist them, but Dawes wanted to be along side the fighting troops.
He was decorated with the Distinguished Service Medal during World War I. Mrs. Dawes supported him in his efforts during the war and formed her own knitting group to knit items for 2 troops.
Mrs. Q says: The main level is exactly like it was when the Dawes lived there. Yes, you can take non flash photos. No, you cannot sit on their furniture. Many artifacts from other buildings are in the house.
Keep in mind that the Park area facing the lake by the Dawes House was not there at one time. It is man made.
Mrs. Q could easily live in the Coach House which was remodeled in the 1920s to accommodate autos. The second floor servants’ quarters and hay loft have been remodeled, now serve as a private residence to renters. Be sure to admire the wood carvings, and Mr. Dawes memorial honoring his superiors he served under during the war. See it – such an accomplished man, so much history in the Dawes House. The second floor has exhibits showing how Evanston evolved. At its early stages it was called “Heavenston”.