Looking for a September History Lesson?

Visit These Hometown Historic Sites

At American Vintage Home, we’re big on history—which is one of the reasons we do what we do. In fact, our town of Evanston, IL, is rich in historic sites and remarkable structures that showcase our heritage. Since we are nestled 12 miles north of downtown Chicago and on the shore of Lake Michigan, there is always something to do. Even local residents can learn something new about history if they look hard enough.

Are your kids looking for some extracurricular history lessons? Why not plan a day trip into Evanston or nearby Wilmette for some notable sightings? There is always plenty to see! And after a hot day touring the city, you can retreat back to your totally cool home for relief. If you’re sweating it, don’t forget air conditioning repair in Wilmette, IL, is only a phone call away!

Here are six historic sites in Evanston and the nearby Wilmette community that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Grosse Point Lighthouse: Visit this now official national landmark built in 1873. Schedule a tour to climb the 141 steps to the top of the tower! Hurry, though. While the grounds are open year-round, seasonal tours run from mid-May until the end of September.
2. Northwestern University: Built in 1851, Northwestern University’s many campuses are rich with the arts, innovation, architecture and athletics.
3. Evanston History Center: Visit the Evanston History Center and learn the rich history of Evanston! There are always tours, exhibits and educational programs happening.
4. Charles Gates Dawes House: The Dawes House is a mansion built around 1894 on a two-acre lakefront site. Today, it is a national landmark that boasts incredible aesthetics. Its 25 rooms, mahogany-finished interiors and spired towers make it a magnificent sight to see.
5. Frances Willard House: Frances Willard was a social reformer who fought tirelessly for women’s suffrage, other women’s rights, education and labor reforms. She was the very first dean of women for Evanston College’s Women’s College.
6. Baha’i House of Worship: The Baha’i House in Wilmette, IL, is a center for worship and reflection for spiritual meditation and prayer. The garden and temple are open to the public daily year-round.

Summer Will Be History Soon, So Turn Up the Heat!

Once you’ve completed your tours, it’s time to turn your attention to your historical home’s heating. After all, it won’t be long before the Chicago winds are whipping toward us and those white flakes begin to plummet. Fortunately, just like we can guide you toward the best sights in the city, we can also recommend the best maintenance and heating tips for older homes.

Here are six tips you can practice this fall:

1. Clean or replace the filter. If you fail to clean or replace your filters, you prevent air from circulating throughout your home. Also, clogged filters make your system work harder than necessary, causing your energy costs to increase.
2. Vacuum vents. Cleaning or vacuuming vents is key, especially if you’re a pet owner. Keep vents free of dust bunnies, pet hair and dirt and you’ll experience cleaner air.
3. Don’t block air registers. Be sure your furniture isn’t blocking your air registers. Blocked registers won’t allow warm air to circulate properly.
4. Pay attention. It is always good practice to be attentive to your heating system. If you hear strange noises or clinking coming from your unit, call for service before it becomes a bigger issue.
5. Test smoke alarms. As the seasons change, it’s not only your heating system that needs attention. Be sure to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, too. A simple test can save lives!
6. Schedule service. Fall should be a reminder that it is time to schedule a professional furnace checkup!

Remember, whatever your older home needs may be—from scheduling your seasonal maintenance to making an appointment for plumbing repair in Evanston, IL, American Vintage Home’s trusted technicians can always solve your issues. Call us today at (847) 999-4595.