John Hossack House, Greek Revival house in Illinois, United States
The John Hossack House is a residence in Greek Revival style in Illinois featuring white Doric columns and triangular pediments. Its windows are arranged symmetrically following classical architectural principles throughout the structure.
The house was built in the mid-1800s and later served as a station on the Underground Railroad, a network that helped enslaved people escape. This connection shows the role it played in American civil rights history.
The house embodies ideals of ancient Greece that drew American builders of the 1800s. The white columns and balanced front elevation express a belief in order and republican values that was common during that period.
The house is protected as a National Register of Historic Places site and can be visited through guided tours. It is best to check in advance when visits are possible, as hours may vary throughout the year.
The front portico is supported by large wooden columns built with precise proportions following ancient mathematical ratios. These crafted details show how thoroughly American builders studied and replicated ancient sources.
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