Students Operate Coffee Stand at Harley Clarke Mansion
New Trier Township High School students run a weekend coffee business on the lawn of the historic Evanston property.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Coffee
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Since July 2026, eleven New Trier Township High School students have operated a weekend coffee stand on the grounds of the Harley Clarke Mansion. The student-run venture offers a unique community space while the historic mansion undergoes a major renovation.
Why it matters
The coffee stand provides a creative outlet for students interested in brewing experiments and business management while activating the lawn of the landmark property. It serves as a local community hub, further demonstrated by the students hosting charitable events at the site.
The student business employs 11 staff members in total, with three to four students typically working during weekend shifts. This activity coincides with the ongoing $29 million renovation project at the historic mansion.
The players
New Trier Township High School
This is a public secondary school located in the North Shore area that draws students from several neighboring communities.
Griffin Henry
He is the founder of the student-run coffee business operating at the mansion grounds.
Harley Clarke Mansion
This historic property located on Sheridan Road is currently the subject of a multi-million dollar renovation effort.
The details
Founder Griffin Henry leads the team in managing inventory and drink preparation throughout the week before moving operations to the lawn for weekend sales. The students rotate through roles, including taking orders and crafting beverages, to keep the service running smoothly for visitors.
Timeline
The Friends of Harley Clarke nonprofit was formed in 2018.
The coffee business began selling products in July 2026.
A two-day instrument drive was held from October 10 to October 11, 2026.
Culture Shift
The coffee stand's presence on the mansion lawn follows the conservation and advocacy patterns established by the 2018 formation of the Friends of Harley Clarke. This project highlights a shift toward active, community-led repurposing of local historic landmarks.
Residents visiting the lawn on weekends can purchase coffee while supporting the student-run initiative. The business provides a gathering space for locals interested in contributing to community efforts like the recent instrument donation drive.
The takeaway
This student venture demonstrates how high schoolers can apply academic and creative skills to foster community engagement. Readers interested in supporting local entrepreneurship can visit the mansion grounds during weekend operations.
Further reading
Learn more about local beverage trends on our Coffee section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Northwestern.
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