The historic home at 6106 N. Kenmore, designed by the noted architectural firm of Pond & Pond, was the long-time residence of radio personality and vocalist Ken Nordine. After his passing in 2019, the house was listed for sale. Multiple offers were received for the property including some from developers looking to demolish it and preservation-oriented buyers looking to preserve it.
Preservation Chicago was able to identify a qualified purchaser of substantial means who is ready, willing and able to purchase the home for use as a single-family residence.
Despite an outpouring of concern from the Edgewater Historical Society and other community members regarding the fate of the home, the intent of the sellers was made known on December 23, 2019 when the application for a demolition permit for the building was submitted.
Because of the Orange-rated status of the home on the Chicago Historic Resources Survey, the application for a demolition permit triggered the start of a 90-day demolition delay which would have expired on March 12, 2020.
Fortunately, the dedicated advocacy of the Edgewater community, the Edgewater Historical Society, Preservation Chicago, Landmarks Illinois, along with the support of 48th Ward Alderman Harry Osterman, the City of Chicago Commission on Chicago Landmarks and Landmarks Staff, created the circumstances to allow the Preliminary Landmark designation which was approved on March 5, 2020. This designation protects the historic building against demolition.
Preservation Chicago advocated with urgency to help bring about this outcome and is thrilled with this potential preservation win.