Waller Family Papers

Waller Family Papers. 1803-1938, bulk 1803-1888.

.9 linear feet.

This collection consists primarily of letters of the Waller family, a wealthy, large, educated family from Kentucky, and later Chicago, pertaining mainly to matters of family activity, family devotion to one another, and especially health. Also included are a family genealogy, biography, and letters from Henry Clay and P.G.T. Beauregard. Related family: Alexander

The materials in this collection are primarily related to James B. Waller, lawyer and businessman from Frankfort, Kentucky and later Chicago; his wife Lucy Alexander Waller; their children, and extended families. He received a law degree from Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky in 1838. He practiced law in Kentucky for the next 20 years, but also began investing in real estate after an 1849 visit to Chicago. Around 1860, Waller relocated permanently to Chicago and established a real estate business with his brothers William, Edward, and Henry.

James built a large home for his family on the north side of Chicago known as Buena House, and developed the surrounding area into the Buena Park neighborhood. The Wallers entertained often at Buena House, and the residence was known among Chicago's upper class for fine hospitality and lavish social events.

Buena House was located at 1711 Sheridan Road which today is 4548 Sheridan Road.

Call Number: Midwest MS Waller
Finding Aid: Collection-level catalog record