Historic House Listings

Speechless! Thompson House, Circa 1888. Illinois’ most expensive old house listing. $19,500,000

September 12, 2019

After looking at this house several times, I just had to know who owns it! The Thompson House was built in 1888. It is located in Chicago, Illinois. It was built for attorney John H. Thompson. So the current owner is co-founder and owner of the Pete’s Fresh Market grocery store chain, James “Jimmy” Dremonas. He purchased the mansion in 2009 for $3.128 million. At the time it was owned by a Scottish Rite Fraternal Organization. The mansion was run down and needed a lot of work. Mr. Dremonas original bought it for himself, his wife and children. By time the restoration was complete, his children were grown and gone. So now the mansion is too big. Six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and 13,400 square feet. $19,500,000

From the Zillow listing:

 

Built for attorney John H. Thompson based on one of Cobb and Frost’s last designs, Thompson House remains one of the most visually stunning landmark homes in Chicago’s Gold Coast. This grand private residence on Dearborn Street is located in a residential / business planned development area, which offers many use possibilities. Impeccably detailed woodwork and gorgeous stained-glass windows speak to the affluence and grandeur of a bygone era. This mansion with a carriage house offers unparalleled craftsmanship and luxury, elegant marble, rich paneling, and Santos Mahogany hardwood floors throughout – and these are only some of this home’s exquisite features. Completely renovated, this residence blends 21st century technology with old-world beauty, top of the line amenities and chic designer touches. Treating visitors to room after room of richness and splendor, Thompson House was created out of red rock for the most distinguished buyer. Thompson House is, in a word, perfect.

 

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