The Loop District in Chicago in Cook County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

Washington Block

Frederick and Edward Baumann architects

— 1873-74 —

Washington Block Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Steve Masler, May 10, 2018

1. Washington Block Marker

Inscription. At the time of its construction, in the aftermath of the Fire of 1871, this was one of the city's tallest buildings. Its limestone facades feature ornate Victorian-style details; its lobby includes a unique curving hardwood staircase. Structurally, the building represents a rare surviving example of an isolated pier foundation, an engineering advancement that helped lead to the high-rise office building.

Erected 1997 by Commission on Chicago Landmarks.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Architecture. In addition, it is included in the Illinois, Chicago Landmarks Commission series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1873.

Location. 41° 52.986′ N, 87° 38.034′ W. Marker is in Chicago, Illinois, in Cook County. It is in The Loop District. It is at the intersection of North Wells Street and Washington on North Wells Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 48 N Wells St, Chicago IL 60606, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in the American Midwest.

Globally, it is in North America,

on the Great Lakes,

Paid Advertisement

Click or scan to see
this page online

in the Western Hemisphere,

in the Western World,

and in the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Viceroyalty of New France,

the territory of the Mississippian Culture,

and the Northwest Territory.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Illinois Bell Telephone Company War Memorial (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); One North LaSalle Building (about 600 feet away); Michael A. Bilandic (about 600 feet away); Burnham Center (about 700 feet away); Roanoke Building and Tower (about 700 feet away); Freeform (about 700 feet away); Third Church Building (approx. 0.2 miles away); Augustus Garrett (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Chicago.

Photographed by Steve Masler, May 10, 2018

2. Washington Block Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 18, 2018, by Steve Masler of Memphis, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 431 times since then and 52 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 18, 2018, by Steve Masler of Memphis, Tennessee. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.