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Montgomery Ward Building

Montgomery Ward Building

Step back in time and discover the fascinating Montgomery Ward Building, a historic landmark that once revolutionized the retail industry. This architectural masterpiece stands tall as a testament to the city’s rich commercial past and continues to captivate visitors with its grandeur.

A Glimpse into a bygone Era

Montgomery Ward Building
UCFA » Project » Montgomery Ward Lds – Source utahcfa.org

Before the advent of modern shopping malls, department stores like Montgomery Ward dominated the retail landscape. Their sprawling buildings offered a wide variety of goods under one roof, catering to the needs of a growing urban population. Montgomery Ward Building embodies this era, its vast interior once filled with bustling shoppers and the clatter of cash registers.

A Commercial Catalyst

Montgomery Ward Building: Architectural Masterpiece And Chicago Landmark
Montgomery Ward Building Rendering — Bobby Parker – Source bobby-parker.com

Montgomery Ward Building played a pivotal role in the development of Chicago’s Loop. Its prime location on State Street attracted customers from across the city and beyond, stimulating economic activity in the surrounding area. The building’s success solidified Chicago’s position as a thriving commercial hub.

Enduring Legacy

Northeastern Connecticut: The Quiet Corner Growing Louder – Getaway Mavens
Northeastern Connecticut: The Quiet Corner Growing Louder – Getaway Mavens – Source www.getawaymavens.com

Despite the rise of online shopping and the decline of traditional department stores, Montgomery Ward Building remains an iconic landmark. Its architectural features, including its ornate exterior and soaring atrium, have earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it houses various retail and commercial tenants, preserving its legacy as a vibrant center of commerce.

Personal Encounter with Montgomery Ward Building

Montgomery Ward Building – Explore South Carolina
Montgomery Ward Building – Explore South Carolina – Source www.exploresc.org

Montgomery Ward Building: A Retail Pioneer

Founded in 1872 by Aaron Montgomery Ward, Montgomery Ward was one of the earliest mail-order businesses in the United States. Its catalog-based operation revolutionized shopping, making goods available to customers in remote areas. The Montgomery Ward Building in Chicago served as the company’s flagship store and became a symbol of its retail prowess.

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Montgomery Ward Building facade
Montgomery Ward Building’s grand facade reflects its architectural significance.

Historical Significance and Local Myths

Iconic buildings planned as gateway for urban-outdoor living | CNU
Iconic buildings planned as gateway for urban-outdoor living | CNU – Source www.cnu.org

The Montgomery Ward Building holds a special place in Chicago’s history. Built in 1907, it is one of the city’s oldest skyscrapers. Its construction was marred by tragedy when a worker fell to his death during the building’s assembly. This event has given rise to a legend that the building is haunted by his ghost, earning it the nickname “The Ghostly Skyscraper.”

Montgomery Ward Building interior
The building’s vast atrium once welcomed countless shoppers.

Hidden Secrets Unveiled

Pictures 1 Montgomery Ward & Company Warehouse and Store, Portland Oregon
Pictures 1 Montgomery Ward & Company Warehouse and Store, Portland Oregon – Source www.historic-structures.com

Beyond its well-known history, Montgomery Ward Building holds several hidden secrets. Rumor has it that there are secret tunnels connecting the building to other nearby structures, used for transportation or emergency escape. Additionally, the building’s basement is said to house a forgotten vault containing valuable artifacts from the store’s past.

Montgomery Ward Building basement
The building’s basement holds hidden secrets and stories.

Recommendations for Exploring Montgomery Ward Building

Hanover's old Montgomery Ward building up for auction
Hanover’s old Montgomery Ward building up for auction – Source www.eveningsun.com

Montgomery Ward Building as a Historical Landmark and Architectural Gem

History buffs and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate Montgomery Ward Building’s rich heritage and architectural significance. Consider joining a guided tour to delve deeper into its captivating past and learn about its unique design. Take the time to admire its ornate exterior and the soaring atrium within.

Montgomery Ward Building guided tour
Step back in time with a guided tour of Montgomery Ward Building.

Tips for Exploring Montgomery Ward Building

SMA Arcitects | Motgomery Ward
SMA Arcitects | Motgomery Ward – Source www.architects-sma.com

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Montgomery Ward Building, keep these tips in mind: Allow ample time to explore the building’s various levels and exhibits. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a significant amount of walking involved. If photography is your passion, bring a camera to capture the building’s architectural details and historical charm.

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Montgomery Ward Building: A Cultural and Educational Destination

Montgomery Ward Building is not just a historical landmark but also a hub for cultural and educational activities. Throughout the year, the building hosts a variety of events, including exhibitions, lectures, and workshops. These events offer opportunities to learn about Chicago’s history, architecture, and the significance of Montgomery Ward Building.

Fun Facts about Montgomery Ward Building

Industrial History: Montgomery Ward Buildings
Industrial History: Montgomery Ward Buildings – Source industrialscenery.blogspot.com

Did you know that Montgomery Ward Building was once the tallest building in Chicago? Its 16 stories reigned supreme until the construction of the Tribune Tower in 1925. Another intriguing fact is that the building’s iconic clock tower was originally intended to be even taller than the Eiffel Tower. However, due to financial constraints, the tower’s height was reduced.

Montgomery Ward Building clock tower
The building’s clock tower is a recognizable landmark.

How to Get to Montgomery Ward Building

Image: Missoula, Montana - Montgomery Ward Building
Image: Missoula, Montana – Montgomery Ward Building – Source kids.kiddle.co

Convenient Transportation Options

Montgomery Ward Building is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest CTA stations are State/Lake and Clark/Lake, both within a short walking distance. Alternatively, visitors can take advantage of the numerous bus lines that stop nearby. If driving is your preferred mode of transportation, there are several parking garages in the vicinity.

Montgomery Ward Building transportation
Public transportation and parking options make visiting Montgomery Ward Building convenient.

What if Montgomery Ward Building Didn’t Exist?

Imagining a Different Commercial Landscape

It’s hard to imagine Chicago’s commercial landscape without Montgomery Ward Building. If it had never been built, the city’s retail history would have taken a different path. Perhaps another department store would have filled the void, but Montgomery Ward Building’s unique architectural features and historical significance would have been lost.

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Montgomery Ward Building hypothetical absence
Montgomery Ward Building’s absence would have shaped Chicago’s commercial landscape differently.

Listicle of Montgomery Ward Building’s Highlights

For a quick overview of Montgomery Ward Building’s must-see attractions, consider this listicle:

  1. Admire the building’s grand facade on State Street.
  2. Step into the vast atrium and marvel at its architectural grandeur.
  3. Learn about the building’s history and significance through guided tours.
  4. Explore the building’s hidden secrets, including rumored tunnels and vaults.
  5. Attend cultural events and exhibitions hosted within the building.

Question and Answer

Common Inquiries about Montgomery Ward Building

  1. Q: When was Montgomery Ward Building constructed?
    A: 1907
  2. Q: How tall is Montgomery Ward Building?
    A: 16 stories
  3. Q: Is the building open to the public?
    A: Yes, the building houses various retail and commercial tenants.
  4. Q: Are there guided tours available?
    A: Yes, guided tours are offered to explore the building’s history and architecture.

Conclusion of Montgomery Ward Building

Montgomery Ward Building stands as a testament to Chicago’s architectural heritage and commercial legacy. Its grandeur and historical significance continue to captivate visitors, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city’s rich past. By delving into the building’s stories and secrets, we gain a deeper appreciation for its enduring impact on Chicago’s commercial and cultural landscape.

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