670-694 Vernon Avenue

For over 100 years, Wienecke Court has been one of Glencoe's most popular shopping destinations.  Built in 1902, the original structure was Wienecke Hardware and General Store.   Glencoe residents are very proud of this local legacy initiated by Henry C. Wienecke.  Wienecke began his business in what was a single small building, which expanded into several buildings as the area grew and prospered, demanding more resources and shopping alternatives.   By the 1940's Wienecke's was Glencoe's largest single commercial business and it continued to be the anchor of the Vernon Avenue business district. 

In the 1950s, Henry Wienecke decided to pass the business on to his children, Evelyn and Art.  Art was working in Barrington and Evelyn was an active participant in the community and a well-known face at her father's store.  When Evelyn and Art took over, they decided to add on to the original store by building a toy and doll store.  The company stayed in business until 1993.

In 1995,  Friedman Properties purchased the property from the Wienecke siblings, who both passed away that year.  To carry on the Wienecke legacy, Friedman properties restored the buildings in order to maintain the architectural elements of the time of Henry Wienecke and his General Store and erected a permanent sign structure forever dedicating this facility with the Weinecke name.  This shopping area in Glencoe has retained its original charm while providing attractive retail and residential space.  Friedman was recognized by the Village of Glencoe's Historic Preservation Commission for its work at Weinecke Court.  The company was acknowledged for changing the use of a structure to meet contemporary needs in a manner that retains its character and architectural integrity.