FARNSWORTH HOUSE DESIGNATED NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Ludwig Mies van der Rohe-designed Farnsworth House near Plano has been named a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service, the nation's highest designation that can be conferred upon a property based on its historical significance.

 

            "Being named a National Historic Landmark is a rare and prestigious honor," said Robert Coomer, director of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA), which administers the National Historic Landmark program in Illinois.  "The Farnsworth House is a one-of-a-kind treasure that has inspired architectural students for decades."

 

            The Farnsworth House, completed in 1951, was designed by world famous architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.  It is an outstanding example of the International Style as applied to domestic architecture by Mies, and has been featured in numerous textbooks over the years as one of the most significant architectural designs of the 20^th Century.  The house was acquired through auction in December 2003 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois (LPCI).  David Bahlman, President of LPCI, stated: "National Historic Landmark status for the Farnsworth House is a fitting tribute for this extraordinary monument to modernism."  LPCI operates the house as a public museum from April to November.    More information can be found on www.farnsworthhouse.org.        

 

Illinois has a total of 83 National Historic Landmarks.  For more information, visit www.Illinois-History.gov/PS/historicplaces.htm.