Step back in time and own a piece of Joliet history. Built in 1941 and constructed of full-slab limestone with 14-inch solid walls, this stately 2,576 sq ft Tudor was originally designed and built for the president of Joliet's Caterpillar plant - the same legendary craftsmanship found in the Joliet Public Library, Joliet Central High School, the historic Joliet Prison, and even the Chicago Water Tower. Nearly everything has been thoughtfully remodeled, while the home's original character has been lovingly preserved. The main level is an open, light-filled haven. The kitchen was opened up to the living and dining rooms, and boasts extensive cabinet space, quartz counters, and newer Frigidaire Professional appliances (2023). …
The Story
1219 Taylor Street
Step back in time and own a piece of Joliet history. Built in 1941 and constructed of full-slab limestone with 14-inch solid walls, this stately 2,576 sq ft Tudor was originally designed and built for the president of Joliet's Caterpillar plant - the same legendary craftsmanship found in the Joliet Public Library, Joliet Central High School, the historic Joliet Prison, and even the Chicago Water Tower. Nearly everything has been thoughtfully remodeled, while the home's original character has been lovingly preserved. The main level is an open, light-filled haven. The kitchen was opened up to the living and dining rooms, and boasts extensive cabinet space, quartz counters, and newer Frigidaire Professional appliances (2023). Original hardwood was professionally restored throughout in 2012 - and where the home had none, in the family room, matching hardwood was specially milled to blend seamlessly with the rest of the house. The family room features vaulted ceilings and built-in bookshelves, an inviting retreat for relaxing or working from home. Nestled into the front corner of the home, the sunroom is a true gem - accessed through original double doors off the dining room. Sheltered on three sides by the stone wall, its front windows offer a peaceful view of a front patio tucked behind a tidy row of hedges and mature landscaping. Upstairs, three massive bedrooms each offer generous space for dedicated sitting areas or a home office. The stunning hall bath features beautiful tile work, a glass shower, and dual sinks, while a second full bath was refreshed in 2024 and the primary bath features an original tub refinished in 2026. Throughout, the home's vintage charm endures: the meticulously restored garage doors are a beautiful statement piece adding to the front curb appeal, the front door retains its original patina handle and knocker, and the original iron staircase and second-floor landing chandelier preserve the home's timeless history. The finished basement is a wonderful bonus space, with a recreation room, fireplace, wet bar, half bath, and laundry beneath a floor finished with a special concrete paint. Outside, your own private resort awaits. A heated 15x31 fiberglass in-ground pool - a San Juan Pools "Monte Carlo" holding 13,000 gallons, with a slide - anchors a professionally landscaped backyard featuring a pool cabana, large shed, and deck. The oversized attached garage fits everything with room to spare. The whole house was renovated in 2012 with canned and accent lighting retrofitted throughout, plus updated plumbing, windows and mechanicals; the roof followed in 2020 and the water heater in 2022. Whole-house water filtration, air purification, humidifier, sprinkler system, security and surveillance, landscape lighting, and buried utilities round it out. Centrally located with easy access to I-80 and I-55. A true fortress of history, ready for its next chapter.
