09/10/2026
Taylor + Travis. Chicago. A Prohibition-era speakeasy. Sherwin-Williams. A scientist.
What could they possibly have in common? 👀
This historic Bratenahl mansion has quite the story!
🏙️ In the early 1900s, Jay and Seville Morse commissioned Chicago architect Jarvis Hunt to design the Elizabethan Tudor mansion, inspired by their Chicago residence.
🥃 During Prohibition, its third-floor ballroom was reportedly used as a speakeasy.
🎨 In 1928, George and Emma Martin purchased the estate. George Martin had a long career with Cleveland-based Sherwin-Williams, eventually serving as president and chairman.
🔬 In 1947, inventor and scientist James Rand moved in. He reportedly established a laboratory in the estate’s former gardener’s cottage, where his work ranged from medical devices to guided-missile technology.
❤️ And more than a century after the home’s story began, it has a pretty famous new connection with Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift!
Cleveland-area real estate has some seriously interesting history hiding behind those front doors. 🏡
Which part of this home’s past surprised you most?