Chicago and North Western Railway Power House, Historic power house in West Loop, Chicago, US
The Chicago and North Western Railway Power House is an industrial building with cream-colored brick and terra cotta decorative elements across its exterior. A tall smokestack rises prominently above the roof, making it instantly recognizable on the streetscape.
The power house was built in 1911 to generate electricity for the Chicago and North Western Terminal, with operations continuing until the 1960s when demand shifted. Architects Frost & Granger designed it as a symbol of the railroad's industrial power during the early 20th century.
The building shows how Chicago transformed from heavy industry to modern commerce, now housing businesses where machinery once hummed.
The structure has been renovated and now holds offices and retail spaces across multiple floors serving various businesses. Visitors can appreciate the exterior and surrounding area from street level while exploring the West Loop neighborhood on foot.
The facility was originally powerful enough to supply electricity to an entire city, showing how important it was to the railroad network. Today it stands as one of the few remaining power stations of its kind in the city and a rare survivor from the railroad infrastructure era.
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