The Muirhead family was among the first settlers in Kane County,
establishing their farmstead on its current site in 1860. By the late 1940s, then owners Robert and Elizabeth Muirhead felt they had outgrown the original farmhouse and wanted something better suited for their growing family of five children. The result was a Usonian-style home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Mr. Wright thought a house should be designed to reflect the individual requirements of its occupants. The Muirheads had many discussions with the architect as to what they wanted and needed in a farm home.
The Muirhead home remains in the family today and in
2003, underwent extensive restoration. In addition to the home, the surrounding
800 acres of farmland is also being restored.
Purchased
by the Kane County Forest Preserve, the land is being re-developed with native prairie wildflowers
and grasses.
Now known as the Muirhead Springs Preserve, the land
features a 4 mile limestone trail loop that can be used by walkers, bicyclists
and horse enthusiasts.
Click here to view our short
video on the history of the Muirhead Farmhouse complete
with footage of the original construction.
