730 W Couch Place Chicago

730 W Couch Place is a historic building in the Near North Side neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. It was built in 1886-1887 as a private residence for John Jacob Glessner, a wealthy industrialist and philanthropist. The building was designed by the noted architectural firm of Burnham and Root, and it is considered to be one of the finest examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture in the city. In 1970, the Glessner House was designated a National Historic Landmark.

The Glessner House is a three-story, brownstone building with a rusticated exterior and a slate roof. The building's facade is divided into three bays, with a central entrance flanked by two windows. The windows are topped with round arches, and the entrance is set within a recessed archway. The building's interior is richly decorated with carved woodwork, stained glass, and marble fireplaces. The house also features a number of innovative features, including a central heating system and an electric elevator.

John Jacob Glessner was a prominent figure in Chicago's business and civic life. He was the president of the Chicago Telephone Company and the Illinois Steel Company, and he served on the board of directors of the World's Columbian Exposition. Glessner was also a major philanthropist, and he donated millions of dollars to the University of Chicago, the Art Institute of Chicago, and other institutions. The Glessner House was a reflection of Glessner's wealth and status, and it was one of the most luxurious homes in Chicago.

The Glessner House was sold to the Chicago Historical Society in 1951, and it is now open to the public as a museum. The museum offers tours of the house, and it also hosts a variety of educational programs and events. The Glessner House is a popular tourist destination, and it is considered to be one of the most important architectural landmarks in Chicago.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, the Glessner House is also notable for its association with a number of famous people. The house was visited by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, and it was the site of the wedding reception of Ernest Hemingway and Hadley Richardson in 1921. The Glessner House has also been featured in several films and television shows, including "The Untouchables" (1987) and "The Good Wife" (2010).

The Glessner House is a historic and architectural gem, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago. The house offers a glimpse into the life of a wealthy and prominent Chicagoan in the late 19th century. The Glessner House also tells the story of Chicago's architectural heritage, and it is a reminder of the city's rich history.