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This is the oldest structure in a 30-building hospital complex on the city’s
South Side. It was cited in Carl Condit’s The Chicago School of
Architecture, and its distinctive v-shaped plan and ornamental details make
it one of the best examples of a Prairie Style hospital.
It is an earlier design by the same firm that designed Illinois Central
Hospital, which by this time was already known nationally for its
innovations in hospital planning. Its lead architect, Hugh M.G. Garden, was
a leading proponent of Prairie Style design. Among the firm’s other notable
works are: Humboldt Park Boathouse Pavilion, Madlener (Graham Foundation)
House, Montgomery Ward Warehouse, and the Schoenhofen Brewery.
The hospital building is threatened by the sale and consolidation of the
entire complex. In addition, there have been recent rumors that the city is
considering condemnation of the Reese properties for use in its 2016 Olympic
bid. The location would accommodate the Olympic Village.
The hospital was included in the 2003-04
Chicagoland Watch List.
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