Wicker Park Chicago Realtor

Brief History of Wicker Park

In 1870, two brothers by the names of Charles and Joel Wicker purchased 80 acres of land along Milwaukee River. Soon after, the Wickers laid out a subdivision with a mix of lot sizes surrounding a four-acre park. The brothers subsequently donated the subdivision to the City of Chicago. At that time, the area was named for the brothers and for the triangular-shaped public park where Wicker Park MLS properties reside. 

As a result of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the first wave of development in the area was spurred as suddenly-homeless Chicagoans sought to build new houses. Wicker Park MLS properties proved to be quite popular, particularly among German and Swedish merchants. The merchants built large mansions along Wicker Park’s finest streets, including Hoyne and Pierce, located just southwest of North & Damen.

Nearing the end of the 19th century, the Wicker Park area was widely known as the “Polish Gold Coast.” Hoyne in particular was regarded as “Beer Baron Row,” since several of Chicago’s wealthiest brewers built lavish mansions there. During the 1890s and 1900s, the influx of Polish immigrants, as well as the completion of the Metropolitan West Side Elevated Lines, dramatically enhanced the population density of West Town, especially in the areas east of Wicker Park MLS.

During World War I, the provisional government of Poland met in Wicker Park. Today, the Polish culture remains a prevalent part of Wicker Park. In particular, the corner of Division, Milwaukee, and Ashland formerly known as “Kostkaville,” retains the name “Polish Triangle.” While you tour this hip and trendy neighborhood, ask your Wicker Park Realtor to point out one of the opulent churches in the Archdiocese of Chicago, built in Polish cathedral style.

As many Polish immigrants moved toward less crowded housing (further northwest of the city) after World War II, Wicker Park MLS expanded to accommodate other diverse ethnicities. By the 1980s, following a real estate slump, area development groups made efforts to stabilize the local community through new, affordable housing construction. This ultimately attracted a large number of artists, drawn to the area for its unique style of home and the availability of affordable converted loft spaces.

Wicker Park Today

Wicker Park MLS listings are some of the most popular to date, as the charming Chicagoan neighborhood boasts a number of commercial and entertainment establishments. There are many new bars, restaurants and stores that have been added to the area in recent years. What’s more, the neighborhood’s close proximity to public transportation and The Loop appeal to workers and professionals who commute into downtown Chicago.

The “Around the Coyote” festival, first launched in 1989, was designed to assist the hundreds of working artists and micro-galleries in the neighborhood of Wicker Park in gaining a level of local and international prominence. An actual 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Around the Coyote was established with the mission to provide the Wicker Park art community with a professional organization that helps artists network and exhibit their art. Typically held during the month of October, Chicago’s “Artist Month,” the festival further enhances the appeal of Wicker Park MLS properties.

Expert Wicker Park Realtor Mike Long of Rubloff Residential Properties can provide you with unparalleled access to the best Wicker Park MLS listings. Mike will assist you in experiencing a smooth, stress-free and enjoyable real estate transaction. With a Wicker Park Realtor like Mike Long on your side, you can benefit from a vast knowledge about the area from a lifelong resident, as well as nearly a decade of experience in negotiating real estate transactions in Chicago.  Contact Mike at 773-851-3654 to schedule an appointment today.