Kenwood
Characterized by quiet streets, shady trees, and imposing mansions, the Kenwood neighborhood is situated on Chicago’s lakefront directly north of Hyde Park. Since gaining international fame as the Chicago home of President Barack Obama, Kenwood has attracted a steady stream of tourists from across the United States. View Slideshow »
History & Architecture
Founded in the 1850s, Kenwood rose quickly to prominence as a fashionable destination. With its large, elegant housing and its proximity to downtown Chicago, the neighborhood has been home to some of Chicago’s most prominent citizens. In addition to President Obama, Kenwood residents have included boxer Muhammad Ali, U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull, meatpacker Gustavus Swift, and Sears executive Julius Rosenwald, among others.
Kenwood boasts many architectural gems, including two homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and a house designed by John Root, partner of Daniel Burnham. Today, the neighborhood encompasses two Chicago Landmark districts.
Business Profile
Kenwood is primarily a residential community, but it includes a few areas of retail and community activity. The Blackstone Branch Library, dedicated in 1904, recently received Landmark designation; among its historic features are a set of murals painted by Oliver Dennet Grover.
On the east side of Kenwood, the Hyde Park Art Center opened a brand-new facility in 2006. Chicago’s oldest alternative exhibition space, HPAC boasts an on-site school and studio and an extensive outreach program.
