Tag Archives: Schmitt Biography in Buildings

Johann Peter Schmitt exemplified a quintessential American story. First, his family represented the tensions in Germany through their choices and resulting tragic losses. They fled from Germany in 1840 to become pioneers north of Chicago, buying land on “the Ridge” to clear and farm. Through three decades, Peter flourished through a transition from farming in Grosspoint to building greenhouses in Ridgeville to developing property for Chicago, without moving. Uncle Peter grew from log cabin to elegant house on the hill. Continue reading →