The Foundation for the Preservation of Flossmoor History was created to bring the Flossmoor community together, past and present, to celebrate our distinct history and understand how it shapes our promising future. And soon, we will have a home…
The Wagner Building
The Wagner Building is Flossmoor’s oldest commercial building. Located at the corner of Flossmoor Road and Leavitt Avenue, it was built in 1889 and was home to A.L. Wagner & Co. Real Estate. The Wagner’s were one of the “founding families’’ of Flossmoor. They built the Civic Center, which became the hub of downtown Flossmoor and the central business district.
Al Wagner recently donated the building to the Foundation for the Preservation of Flossmoor History with the hopes we can restore it and create a space for the community to learn about our history, gather with neighbors, and promote the arts.
Upcoming Events
Join us at an upcoming event!
On Sunday, August 11 from 2-4 PM we are hosting the biggest block party in Flossmoor to celebrate Flossmoor Park’s 100-year anniversary.
Grab a map and take a self-guided walking tour of the first 9 homes built in Flossmoor Park. Learn more about the development and history of the area, including ties to Andrew Carnegie and famous golfers. Create a craft to take home in the style of artist and former resident, Michael Hall. Share what you love about Flossmoor. Enjoy a bite to eat and connect with neighbors in this all ages event. This is open to residents AND non-residents.
The celebration will also feature a good old-fashioned cookie bake-off! To sign up to be a baker, contact Deborah Okleshen: [email protected]
Donations for the renovations of the Wagner Building, to house the Foundation for the Preservation of Flossmoor History and other civic endeavors, are graciously accepted.
Get Involved
This is your opportunity to get involved and create a vibrant and unique space for our community, not to mention save a landmark. Be part of Flossmoor history and help bring this project to life!
We’re looking for monetary donations and artifacts that tell the history of Flossmoor. Some of the categories we’re looking to highlight are our Indian roots, inhabitants prior to 1924, historic homes and diverse architectural styles, the importance of education, the influence of golf, the success and strengths of an integrated community, prominent residents, and other ideas you may have!
Monetary donations may be made to the “Foundation for the Preservation of Flossmoor History”:
Via Check mailed to the Foundation at P.O. Box 94, Flossmoor, IL 60422
Via Venmo at @flossmoorhistory
Via PayPal at [email protected]
To donate artifacts or join the effort, please contact us at [email protected]
**The Foundation for the Preservation of Flossmoor History is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN 87-4278282.**
Tell us your Flossmoor Story!
We’d love to hear what Flossmoor means to you!
In The News
Crump, Eric. Flossmoor historical society receives first major donation, HF Chronicle, December 18, 2023.
Jones, Bill. ‘Tremendous collection’ of midcentury architecture focus of tour in Flossmoor, Olympia Fields, Chicago Tribune Daily Southtown, June 19, 2023.
Rodkin, Dennis & Guth, Amy. Chicago home prices stay solid, with one caveat (16:30), Crain’s Daily Gist podcast, EP 875, June 1, 2023.
Rodkin, Dennis. Peek at a dozen midcentury homes on this driving tour, Crain’s Chicago Business, May 30, 2023.
Crump, Eric. Flossmoor historical society acquires Wagner Building to serve as space for history and arts, HF Chronicle, December 25, 2022.
Traut, Lauren. Historic, Cherished Wagner Building Donated to Local Nonprofit, Patch, December 9, 2022.