And On This Farm…

By Mark Loehrke
Appears in the June 2025 issue.

Country living awaits in this former dairy barn in Oswego

The rural aesthetic has long held appeal for homeowners. Whether from the standpoint of location (world-weary urbanites vowing to leave the hustle and bustle behind for a simpler, quieter life in the country) or design (sliding barn doors, rustic reclaimed wood decor), the draw of farm living has endured well beyond the sitcom dreams of Eddie Albert. And for those prospective buyers looking for a true foothold in both the suburban and pastoral lifestyles, few local properties span the divide more organically than the former working dairy barn turned luxury home at 51 Chippewa Drive in Oswego, now on the market for $1.3 million.

Built for cows in 1917 and transformed for family living 80 years later, the home today features original wood and other materials from the dairy barn in its floors, ceiling, beams, and stairwell. Adding to its rural charm, the original silo is still attached to the home, while several elements from the barn have been preserved in the main interior living space (which was once the hayloft), including the original pulley now in the living room and an oversized sundial above the staircase. And listing agent Katherine Rubis of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago says there are a number of other fun features incorporated throughout the home, such as a built-in roulette wheel in the living room and a large rustic-inspired loft area in one of the six bedrooms.

Step outside, meanwhile, to enjoy the timeless appeal of life in the country, from relaxing around the patio fire pit (under the watchful eye of a sculpted bison) to reveling in the peace and serenity of the small backyard pond and stream to idling the night away on the classic wooden swing. After all, those farm chores—however different from 1917 they might be in 2025—always can wait until morning.

Photos: Creative Light Studios