Price Reduced! The Historic 1896 ‘Castle on Ridge’ in Evanston, Illinois

• Address: 1232 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60202
• Price: $2,490,000
• Bedrooms: 11
• Bathrooms: 6.5+
• Living Space: 8,600 sqft
• Year Built: 1896
• Lot Size: 0.89 Acres
• Key Features: Third-floor ballroom, full coach house with rental apartment, pipe organ facade, 3-story grand staircase, 4-car garage, and original stained glass.

If you have ever driven through Evanston and wondered about the most magnificent house on the block, this is it. Known fondly as the “Castle on Ridge,” this 1896 mansion is finally coming on the market for the first time in almost 50 years. It was designed by a famous architect named Stephen A. Jennings, and it sits proudly on nearly a full acre of lush, green land. This isn’t just a home; it’s a landmark that feels like a trip back to a more elegant time. The house is massive, offering 18 rooms and over 8,600 square feet of living space. Because it has been held by the same owners for so long, it has a warmth and soul that you just can’t find in modern buildings. From the moment you see the stone exterior and the expansive yard, you know you are looking at something truly special.

When you step inside, the first thing you’ll notice is the light. Huge windows and high ceilings allow sunshine to flood every corner, highlighting the incredible wood details and millwork. The heart of the home is a spectacular three-story staircase. It is so grand that it actually soars above original stained glass windows and—believe it or not—a pipe organ facade! It is the kind of detail that makes your jaw drop and serves as a perfect conversation starter for anyone who visits.

The layout is perfect for someone who loves to entertain. There is a huge family room and a formal dining room for big holiday meals. But the real “showstopper” is on the top floor. This house actually has its own third-floor ballroom! Imagine the parties, dances, or even a massive art studio you could create in a space that grand.

Even though the house is historic, the kitchen has been updated with custom cabinets and a cozy sitting room. This makes the home very livable for a modern family. With 11 bedrooms and three different staircases, there is plenty of room for everyone to have their own private space. Outside, the property keeps getting better. There is a large four-car garage and a full coach house. The second floor of the coach house is a two-bedroom apartment that is already being rented out. This is a fantastic bonus because it provides extra income every month to help with the costs of owning such a large estate.

This is more than just a real estate listing; it is a rare opportunity to become the caretaker of an Evanston treasure. Whether you are wandering through the 18 rooms or enjoying the peaceful acre of land, the “Castle on Ridge” offers a life of beauty and flexibility. It is ready for its next 50 years of memories, and it is just waiting for someone who loves old houses to come home.

Photos:

Linda Levin • linda.levin@sothebysrealty.com
Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty
Photography Credit: Joe Compean, VHT Studios