Every day, Western Springs residents drive past the large house at 4621 Lawn. But, few know that it once housed a military school for young boys.

4621 Lawn – circa 2012

In the early days of the Village, a Sanitarium occupied the building at 4621 Lawn. However, over time, officials began to investigate the efficacy of the treatments given patients and in 1904 the institution was forced to close its doors. But, shortly afterward, Thomas Campbell chose the building for his military academy, which was previously located in River Forest.

While it is not known exactly when the Academy moved to Western Springs, it appears to have been in the early 1900s. And, various posters and flyers indicate that it was in full operation in 1906.

WS Military Academy Poster – 1906

But, what was it like at the Academy?  According to the recollections of several individuals who actually boarded at the Academy, their day-to-day lives were not particularly pleasant. At any one time, there were 30 boys of various ages, many of whom came from poor families or were orphans. More often than not, their tuition was paid by wealthy benefactors or relatives.

The faculty consisted of Thomas Campbell, the founder, who taught woodworking. Other subjects were taught by a Miss Leach and a Miss Murdock. And, a Mr. Smith organized and conducted the Academy’s Fife, Drum, and Bugle Corps. In fact, their concerts helped generate funds for the school.

Western Springs Military Academy – circa 1906

According to those who lived nearby, the boys were fed fairly well and participated in regular military-type drills. However, they were not allowed to associate with the local children. Although one former Academy attendee reported that he disliked the school and finally ran away, neighbors described the Academy as providing “kind but strict” treatment. Another resident recalled that the boys were often brought to the local Congregational Church on Sunday nights for Christian meetings.

While the academy operated until at least 1912, the founder, Thomas Campbell, was reportedly killed in an automobile accident. That, plus mounting debt, forced the closure of the academy once and for all.