TOP 10 Preservation of railroad heritage in Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago & Northwestern Powerhouse is a historic landmark located at 217 North Clinton Street in Chicago, Illinois. Originally serving the 1911 Chicago & Northwestern Terminal, this Beaux Arts style building designed by Frost & Granger features elements of Italian Renaissance Revival architecture. The power house, with its cream brick exterior and terra cotta trim, includes a 227-foot brick smokestack at the corner of Clinton and Milwaukee. The building, which once powered a city of 15,000 people, ceased operations in the 1960s but survived the demolition of the terminal in 1984. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a Chicago Landmark, the power house has been redeveloped into a mixed-use office and retail space, winning awards for its adaptive reuse. Visitors can admire this architectural gem and learn about its significance in Chicago's transportation history.

Welcome to the Chicago Great Western Railroad Depot Museum, a captivating journey into the rich history of American railroads. Located at 111 East Myrtle Street in the charming town of Elizabeth, Illinois, our museum offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of railway travel and its significant impact on the development of the Midwest. Housed in an authentic historic depot, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the Chicago Great Western Railroad and its role in shaping the region. Visitors can explore meticulously preserved railway memorabilia, learn about the lives of the people who worked on the railroads, and discover how these iron pathways transformed commerce and communities.

The Historic Pullman Foundation Exhibit Hall is a museum and tourist attraction located at 11141 South Cottage Grove Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. The exhibit hall showcases the history and significance of the Pullman neighborhood, which was once a company town for the Pullman Palace Car Company. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the architecture, labor history, and community life of Pullman, offering a unique glimpse into the past. The museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning more about this important chapter in American industrial history.