South Loop & Near South Side
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History
In 1885 the dearborn rail station opened up in Chicago's near south side to make way for easy movement of passengers and supplies in and out of the city. Printers took advantage of this supply chain and moved their print houses into the area. Among the first to the area was the Donahue and Henneberry Company. To support their printing business they built the Donahue Building at 711 South Dearborn Street in 1883.
Early on the close proximity to the city lured in businesses, especially printers, who competed for travelers coming into and from Dearborn station. Supporting the colossal presses of the time were equally impressive buildings. During its height, the Chicago printing industry supported a significant number of manufacturing jobs. Supporting this was a myriad of retail shops in the area.
After WWII advances in printing technology and changes in the printing industry lessened the need for such impressive buildings. During the time the industry also witnessed a reduced dependency upon the rail systems. Many of the printers having established roots in the south loop began moving out. With this critical industry being displaced, the area began to decay during the 50's and 60's.
In 1977 the area now known as Printer's Row, despite having no more established printers, was labeled a historic area in the National Registry. The abandoned buildings were converted into expansive south loop lofts.
Today
The current Printer's Row / South Loop area is a hybrid between the old and the new. Among the historic facades of yesterday's printers are emerging new construction apartment buildings. As recent as 2004, the area has exploded in both residential and retail space. The recently build University Center on Congress Parkway is attracting a younger crowd demanding more amenities in the area.
Having lived in the South Loop for many years, Verena brings an understanding of the area that other agents cannot. If you are interested in finding a south loop loft or a printers row loft, please fill out our online form and begin seeing properties today!