09/24/2026
619 N. Sheridan Road
Philander Stewart
Philander Stewart (1813-1889) was a Waukegan joiner, builder, and politician in the 1860s and 1870s.
Stewart came to Illinois in 1836 from Tompkins County, New York. He married Clarissa Peck Hewitt in Kane County and started a family.
By 1850, the Stewarts were living on a 131-acre parcel near Half Day. Philander served as Justice of the Peace and Vernon Township Supervisor. As supervisor, he attended meetings at the Waukegan courthouse.
In 1863, Stewart moved his family to Waukegan and won election as Third Ward Alderman, serving until 1867. Amid this success, his wife passed away.
Stewart built a brick store on the southeast corner of Genesee and Madison Street, where he sold groceries and provisions. He also built bridges and culverts, including the “new bridge at Besley’s brewery.”
By approving liquor licenses as a township supervisor and supporting liquor sales as an alderman, Stewart drew detractors who labeled him a “Whiskeyite.” This derogatory term was often used for men in politics who supported the liquor industry.
In February 1870, Stewart purchased the property at today’s 619 N. Sheridan Road for $900 ($23,000 in today’s market). That September, the Waukegan Weekly Gazette noted he was building a new Gothic villa for his family.
By 1875, Stewart’s health began to decline, so he spent time visiting two married daughters in Taylorville, Illinois. In 1878, he purchased a house for himself and two single daughters in Chicago.
In October 1885, Philander Stewart and daughter Emma G. Stewart sold the Waukegan property to John Smith and Nancy Louise (Wilder) Clark.
Join the Waukegan Historical Society's Tour of Homes on Sunday, September 27 to explore the Stewart House in person! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://WHStourofhomes2026.eventbrite.com
