VISIT COMELY BANK

Experience the Home That Welcomed the World

A visit to the Paul & Jean Harris Home offers a unique opportunity to step inside the personal world of Rotary’s founder and his marriage partner, Jean.

Come inside Comely Bank

Whether you are a Rotary member making a historic tour, a student exploring civic leadership, a peacebuilder, a history enthusiast, or a local visitor, the home offers powerful insights into how personal relationships and positive action can inspire lasting social change.

Visitors can explore:

  • Historic residence and grounds of Paul & Jean Harris
  • Stories of Paul Harris’ childhood, Rotary’s founding, the Harrises’ courtship and marriage, and their ambassadorial role in Rotary
  • Exhibits highlighting the Harrises’ travels and international friendships
  • The contributions of Jean Harris at a time when women’s roles were limited
  • The Friendship Tree tradition and its symbolic impact
© Rotary International

Harris Home Front Stairway and Dining Room

By appointment

GUIDED TOURS

Tours of the Home are available by appointment.

No charge

ADMISSION

There is no charge for a tour; donations are appreciated.

7 days

PLAN AHEAD

Please request your tour at least seven days in advance.

A CLOSER LOOK

Explore the rooms and details of the Home

Historic rooms, period-appropriate furnishings, and restored architectural details offer visitors a closer view of the Harrises’ life at Comely Bank.

Restored bedroom with wood floor, bed, desk, and period furnishings.
© Rotary International

Restored bedroom interior at the Paul and Jean Harris Home.

© Rotary International

Harris Home Dining Room

© Rotary International

Harris Home Rotary Room

Restored sitting room with period furniture, wood blinds, and an area rug.

Restored sitting room inside the Paul and Jean Harris Home.

Close view of a period-style table lamp beside a window.

Period-appropriate lamp detail inside the restored Harris Home.

Two visitors seated across from one another on the front sun porch.
© Rudy Viereckl

Visitors on the Front Sun Porch of the Harris Home.

TOURS

Guided visits deepen the story

The Paul and Jean Harris Home is available for tours by appointment. Guided visits provide a deeper understanding of the lives, values, and legacy of Paul and Jean Harris – and their enduring influence.

Historic Home Location

10856 South Longwood Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60643

FRIENDSHIP GARDEN

A tradition rooted in international friendship.

One of Paul and Jean Harris’ most enduring legacies was the planting of “Friendship Trees” around the world and in their own garden, living symbols of international understanding and peace.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Planning Your Visit

Is there an admission fee?

There is no charge for tours of the Paul & Jean Harris Home. Tours are available by appointment.

Yes. The Home is wheelchair accessible and includes an elevator providing access to the basement, the upstairs deck, and Paul and Jean Harris’ bedroom.

Visitors can explore the historic residence and grounds, exhibits highlighting Paul and Jean Harris’ travels and international friendships, stories connected to Rotary’s founding and the Harrises’ lives, and the Friendship Tree tradition and its symbolic impact.

Yes. A meeting and event space, the Rotary Room, was added to the rear of the Home as part of the restoration. Please contact the Foundation for information about use of the space.

Experience Comely Bank for yourself

Tours and special visits are available by appointment.