1856 N Leclaire Ave in Chicago's North Austin Neighborhood

Introduction to 1856 N Leclaire Ave Chicago IL 60639

1856 N Leclaire Ave in Chicago, Illinois 60639 is a residential address located in the North Austin neighborhood on the city's West Side. This neighborhood has a rich history and has undergone many changes over the years. Today it remains a vibrant community with engaged residents focused on further improving North Austin.

History of North Austin Neighborhood

The North Austin neighborhood originally developed in the late 19th century as a suburban escape from downtown Chicago. The Galena and Chicago Union Railroad was built through the area in 1848, spurring initial growth. Homebuilding expanded through the 1920s and 1930s as the population grew. At the time, North Austin was home to many European immigrants including Germans, Italians, Poles, and Swedish.

After World War II, African Americans began moving to North Austin seeking better housing opportunities outside the overcrowded South Side. Racial turnover accelerated in the 1960s, leading to white flight as many European families left the community. By 1970, over 90% of North Austin residents were African American.

Like other Chicago neighborhoods, North Austin experienced economic decline in the 1970s and 1980s. Poverty increased and several public housing projects were constructed, concentrating low-income households. Crime rates also rose during this period. However, community groups worked to improve conditions and by 1990 the crime rate was declining again.

North Austin Today

North Austin remains a predominantly African American neighborhood today. Over 85% of residents are black. There is also a sizable Hispanic population at 11%. The community faces ongoing economic challenges but has many assets as well. North Austin is centrally located near public transit. It also has abundant parks and recreation centers. A revitalization effort is underway focused on economic development, improved housing, and lower crime.

1856 N Leclaire Ave

The property at 1856 N Leclaire Ave sits on the eastern edge of North Austin. It is located between Leclaire Avenue and Laramie Avenue, just north of Grand Avenue. This is a residential area composed primarily of single-family homes, brick bungalows, and small apartment buildings.

The home at 1856 N Leclaire Ave was built in 1930. It is a two-story brick building with a gable roof. The property sits on a 4,800 square foot lot. There are 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in the home.

This property last sold in June 2001 for $175,000 according to public records. The current owner has lived there for over 20 years. The home is in good condition today and has many original details.

The surrounding blocks contain similar tidy brick homes and two-flats. This area has slightly higher home values and owner-occupancy rates than some other parts of North Austin. However, it remains an affordable working-class neighborhood.

Neighborhood Amenities

Living in the 1800 block of N Leclaire Ave provides easy access to amenities. Laramie Avenue to the west is a major retail corridor with grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and restaurants. some highlights include:

• Cermak Fresh Market - neighborhood grocery store just over 1/2 mile away.
• Walgreens - pharmacy and convenience store 1/2 mile south.
• McDonald's - fast food restaurant 1/2 mile northeast.
• La Cabana Restaurant - local Mexican eatery 1/2 mile southwest.

In addition to retail options, the area also has several parks and recreational facilities:

• Rockefeller Park - 3 acre park with athletic fields 1/2 mile southeast.
• Emmet Elementary School - public school with outdoor recreational spaces 1/2 mile west.
• Rutherford Sayre Park -over 7 acres with sports facilities 1 mile northwest.
• Jessie White Tumblers Gymnastics Center - just over 1 mile southwest.

Public transportation is readily available along Chicago Avenue and Cicero Avenue. The CTA Bus 53 along Laramie Avenue can connect residents to the Chicago Transit Authority's Blue Line L trains downtown.

Living in the North Austin Community

North Austin has an engaged community with many active organizations and initiatives aimed at further improving the neighborhood. Some examples include:

• North Austin Neighborhood Association - brings residents together on community issues.
• North Austin Council - nonprofit supporting local economic development.
• Greater St. John Bible Church - involved in community outreach programs.
• Austin Coming Together - anti-violence and youth programs.
• Laramie-Grand Business District - promotes local businesses.

There are also events that bring the community together and celebrate North Austin's culture and diversity. Annual highlights include North Avenue Mile Community Run/Walk, the Westside Music Festival, and the North Austin Juneteenth Parade.

For families, North Austin has ten public schools educating over 9,000 students. Local schools include Michele Clark Magnet High School, Louis Armstrong Elementary, and Spencer Elementary Technology Academy.

Despite ongoing challenges, North Austin remains a neighborhood rooted in community pride with active resident engagement to further improve the area. The property at 1856 N Leclaire Ave provides easy access to local amenities and the ability to get involved in community initiatives.

Conclusion

1856 N Leclaire Ave in Chicago's North Austin neighborhood has a rich backstory and an engaged, diverse community around it today. This residential property provides amenities and community assets that make North Austin a vibrant area on Chicago's West Side. There are also many committed local organizations working to build an even better future.

FAQs

When was the home at 1856 N Leclaire Ave built?

The property was constructed in 1930. It is a two-story brick building with a gable roof.

What amenities are available near 1856 N Leclaire Ave?

The home is located near retail outlets on Laramie Avenue including grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants. There are also several parks within half a mile such as Rockefeller Park and Emmet Elementary School.

What is the North Austin neighborhood like today?

North Austin is predominantly an African American neighborhood with over 85% black residents. It faces economic challenges but community groups are working to attract investment and improve the area.

What transportation options exist near 1856 N Leclaire Ave?

Public transit is available via the CTA bus routes along Chicago Avenue and Cicero Avenue. The CTA Blue Line can be accessed downtown via bus 53 along Laramie.

What community organizations serve the North Austin area?

Groups like the North Austin Council, Austin Coming Together, and Laramie-Grand Business District help promote economic growth, reduce crime, and engage residents.