12917 Greenwood Avenue (built c. 1890)

Matthias Helbreg was born in Germany and came to Blue Island in the 1860s. He was a carpenter, and this lovely home would have served as his “calling card,” announcing his skill to the community and potential clients. Helbreg later owned a grocery store on Western Avenue and became treasurer of the Blue Island Brewing Company. He also served as a Village Trustee from 1888-1894 and a member of Blue Island’s Volunteer Fire Department in the 1880s.

Conrad Rohe purchased the home from Helbreg in 1908. Rohe owned a local lumber company.

The home is one of the finest examples of the high-style Victorian residences that lined Greenwood Avenue by the end of the nineteenth century – many were lost in the 1920s as revival styles came to prominence and these homes fell out of fashion with wealthier residents.

continue the tour –> 8. Charles Young House

Photo Credits: Christine L. Hawley