Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity House

The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity House is a student residence building in the Prairie School style located at the University of Illinois. It features characteristic horizontal lines, limestone trim, and tall supporting piers that rise prominently above the front porch roof.

Built in 1907 by architects George and Albert Dean, this house became home to the Illinois Beta chapter founded eight years prior. The design reflects the Prairie School movement that shaped architectural thinking in the region during the early twentieth century.

The building shows how fraternity members share daily life together on campus and organize their communal activities. Walking through reveals spaces designed for group gathering that reflect the social role these organizations play in student life.

The building sits within walking distance of the University of Illinois campus and is visible from the street. You can observe the architectural details from the sidewalk as you pass through the neighborhood.

This structure uniquely blends both Prairie School and American Craftsman architectural approaches, a combination rarely seen in other fraternity houses. This fusion makes it an uncommon example of how different design movements influenced building practices of that era.

Location: Champaign

Architectural style: Prairie School architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.10778,-88.23556

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07