Plano, Illinois School - F. S. Allen, architect

The Plano school opened in the late 1800s and initially housed the High School and Elementary School. Constructed of brick and stone, it survived until the mid 1950s.

Von Steuben School in Kankakee, Illinois

The Von Steuben School in Kankakee was one of Mr. Allen's most exuberant applications of the basic schoolhouse design. Here, the unique Allen Window design is executed in stone, rather than the often used iron casting. But the presence of the turret over the main entrance, along with other embellishments, were the idea of the local school board. 

This building was razed in the late 20th century over safety and capacity concerns, but the arch from the front of the building was saved and welcomes students to the new school building as it spans the sidewalk leading to the main entrance. 

Did you know - the Von Steuben School was named for Revolutionary War general Friedrich Wilhelm Von Steuben, the same man who is celebrated in the iconic parade scene in Ferris Beuller's Day Off.

Now Available

Available now, all 4 books!!

Seth's Historic Impressions Volume II, the second year of articles, is available through KDP as are Patrick Magosky books, Historic Impressions - Joliet the First 35 Years and Historic Impressions Shorewood.