A West Urbana Neighborhood Project
Is the former home of Mary Howe Baker, who worked at the Harvard College Observatory before moving to Urbana. The family was close friends with Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, and hosted Eleanor at this house for dinner.
Is the former home of Harris Francis Fletcher, a renowned Milton Scholar who compiled the most unique and complete collection of John Milton first editions and helped establish the University’s Rare Book and Special Collections Library.
Is the former home of Larry Smarr, who was the first director of the National Center for Supercomputing Applications and paved the way for modern Internet.
In his free time he installed an indoor hot tub and wine cellar in the house (both of which have since been removed).
Is the former home of Orval Hobart Mowrer, who was a professor of psychology at University of Illinois between 1948 and 1975.
He was a pioneer in group therapy likely having some sessions in the home’s living area.
Contact us if you would like to share your Urbana home's story.