Edward Carson Waller


Edward Carson Waller was a Chicago developer and patron of Frank Lloyd Wright who pioneered development of subsidized low-income housing and some of the first skyscrapers in Chicago.

Early life

Waller was born November 21, 1845 in Maysville, Kentucky to parents James B. Waller and Lucy Alexander. Around 1860, the family moved to the western suburbs of Chicago, on a family estate now known as now known as Buena Park. At age 24, Waller became close friends with future White City architect Daniel Burnham as they traveled to Nevada in 1869 to speculate for gold. While they did not get rich, the close friendship continued upon their return to Chicago.

Associated developments

Waller co-founded the Central Safety Deposit Company and used his influence around the city to develop many famous Chicago buildings.