A fascinating look into a time you’ve read about and seen in movies and tv – actually see how the rich lived back in the 1800s.  Tucked in the heart of Oak Park, this prairie-style house and museum is one of the nation’s most architecturally significant spots; the only George W. Maher building open to the public as a museum (if you care about that stuff).  I’ve forgotten so much of this information that it’s scary, but I remember that its current name reflects the street intersection on which it sits (built for millionaire banker John Farson), it was the first home in Oak Park with electric lighting (their own generator), the lighting was (is?) DC and back when I was growing up they still had original light bulbs in use – I did not grow up in the early 1900s – do not listen to my kids.  And even millionaires slept along side their servants in the huge upstairs summer porch (hey, when it’s 90º with no ventilation…).

If you want to spend a day really seeing history (the sheer number of photos would take an hour or two to view), grab this livingsocial deal:   Tour the Storied “Pleasant Home”: Two Historic House and Museum Admissions for $10.  Open Thursday through Sunday, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. I don’t see a purchase limit.