Preservation Talk: Walser House
Presents by Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
6:00–7:30 pm
Zoom
“Located in the Austin neighborhood on Chicago’s far west side, the 1903 Walser House is an important early Wright design that distills his ideas for producing houses on modest budgets. After the death of its longtime steward, it has fallen into disrepair and entered foreclosure in recent years, resulting in its inclusion on local and statewide lists of most endangered historic buildings in 2025.
“This talk will provide an overview of the house’s significance, tracing the influence that it had on many future Wright designs. It will also provide an update on the efforts of the Conservancy and local leaders to advocate for its preservation so that it can resume its role as an anchor in the community for decades to come.
“Speaker: John H. Waters, AIA, is the Preservation Programs Director at the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy.
“Tickets and registration: Advance registration is required. Tickets are $10 for the general public, or complimentary for Building Conservancy members
“Register at Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy website
J.J. Walser Jr. House is a Preservation Chicago 2025 Chicago 7 Most Endangered. Preservation Chicago has been working very closely with stakeholders to try to bring about a successful outcome for the Walser House including preservation partners, the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, Landmarks Illinois and other community organizations.
We have monitoring the deteriorating condition of this important house and advocating for its stabilization and restoration for many years. Our extensive experience working in neighborhoods of disinvestment has proven to be a very important component in working through the many challenges to stabilizing and restoring the Walser House by Frank Lloyd Wright. Hard work remains ahead, but we feel optimistic by the progress that is being made.
J.J. Walser House, a Preservation Chicago 2025 Chicago 7 Most Endangered