What is Pullman, Chicago, and where is it located?

Pullman is one of Chicago's 77 defined community areas, situated on the city's South Side. It is located approximately twelve miles from the Chicago Loop and lies adjacent to Lake Calumet. The community area encompasses a broader region than just its historic districts.

What are the geographical boundaries of the historic Pullman Company development?

The development built by the Pullman Company is specifically bounded by 103rd Street to the north, 115th Street to the south, the railroad tracks to the east, and Cottage Grove Avenue to the west.

What architectural landmarks are found in Pullman, Chicago?

Pullman boasts several historic and architecturally significant buildings, including the Hotel Florence, the Clock Tower and Factory complex, the area surrounding Market Square, and Greenstone Church. The Arcade Building was also a notable structure but was destroyed in the 1920s.

What is the significance of the former church in the adjacent Kensington neighborhood?

In the nearby Kensington neighborhood, which is part of the Roseland district, stands the former church of St. Salomea. This church, built in the Polish Cathedral style, is now used by the Salem Baptist Church of Chicago.

What recognition has Pullman received in contests sponsored by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity?

Pullman was recognized as one of seven sites nominated for the Illinois Seven Wonders in a contest sponsored by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

When was historic Pullman built, and by whom?

Historic Pullman was constructed in the 1880s by George Pullman. It was originally designed as workers' housing for the employees of his railroad car company, the Pullman Palace Car Company.

What were the living conditions and amenities provided in the original Pullman housing?

The rowhouses in Pullman were designed by architect Solon Spencer Beman and were considered comfortable for their time. They included amenities such as indoor plumbing, gas lines, and sewer systems, aiming to meet the needs of the workers living there.

What led to the Pullman Strike in 1894?

Following the Panic of 1893, a depression caused the Pullman Company to reduce demand for its cars. The company responded by laying off hundreds of workers and switching many others to piecework, which reduced their overall income. Crucially, the company did not lower the rents for workers living in the company town, leading to widespread discontent and the initiation of the Pullman Strike.

How long did the Pullman Strike last, and what was its outcome?

The Pullman Strike began in 1894 and lasted for two months. It eventually required intervention from the U.S. government and military. A Strike Commission established in 1894 concluded that the aesthetic features of the town held little monetary value for the employees.

What legal requirement led to the Pullman Company selling the town of Pullman?

After George Pullman's death in 1897, the Illinois Supreme Court mandated that the Pullman Company sell the town. The court ruled that operating a town was outside the company's corporate charter.

When was the town of Pullman annexed by Chicago, and when were the houses sold to occupants?

The town of Pullman and other significant portions of Chicago's South Side were annexed by the city of Chicago in 1899. Within ten years of the annexation, the city sold the houses to the individuals who were living in them.

How did Pullman's fortunes change with deindustrialization?

Beginning in the 1950s, industrial and railroad restructuring led to significant job losses in Chicago. As work opportunities and income declined in Pullman, the neighborhood experienced a gradual decline, prompting residents to move to newer housing in the suburbs. The original town was even threatened with demolition in 1960 for an industrial park.

How did residents of Pullman prevent the demolition of their historic community in the 1960s?

In 1960, when the original Town of Pullman faced demolition for an industrial park, residents organized and formed the Pullman Civic Organization. Through their lobbying efforts with the city, they successfully saved their community from destruction.

What landmark status has the Pullman Historic District achieved?

The Pullman Historic District has achieved National, State, and City landmark status. It was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1969, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, designated a State landmark in 1970, and declared a City of Chicago Landmark in 1972. This status protects the original rowhouses and public buildings.

What guidelines are in place to protect the character of Pullman's historic districts?

To preserve the historic character of the districts, the City of Chicago has established specific guidelines for new construction and renovations. These guidelines are administered by the city and are further detailed in resources like the Beman Committee's Homeowner's Guide, named after Pullman's original architect.

When was Pullman designated as a National Monument and later a historical park?

Pullman was designated the Pullman National Monument in February 2015 under President Obama. Subsequently, it was re-designated as a national historical park in December 2022.

What is the general demographic profile of the Pullman community area?

The Pullman community area is predominantly African American, although this characteristic varies among its constituent neighborhoods. As of a June 2017 analysis, it had a population of 6,501 people and 2,894 households, with 82.8% identifying as African American, 7.1% as White, and 8.5% as Hispanic or Latino.

How does the racial makeup of the Pullman neighborhood differ from North Pullman and Cottage Grove Heights?

While the Pullman community area as a whole is largely African American, the specific Pullman neighborhood has a more mixed demographic with 29% White, 31% African American, and 36% Hispanic or Latino residents. In contrast, North Pullman is 96% African American, and Cottage Grove Heights is 98% African American.

What is the median age in Pullman compared to the city of Chicago?

The median age in the Pullman community area is 40 years, which is higher than the citywide median age of 33 years for Chicago.

Which major motion pictures have featured Pullman, Chicago?

Pullman has been featured in several major films, including 'Road to Perdition,' which was filmed in the historic district and showcased its factory and neighborhood scenes. Additionally, key scenes from 'The Fugitive' (1993) and 'The Express: The Ernie Davis Story' (2007) were filmed in Pullman.

How has Pullman's architecture influenced the film 'The Polar Express'?

The architecture of Pullman served as inspiration for the North Pole scenes in the film 'The Polar Express.' Specifically, the building from which Santa Claus emerges is based on the Pullman Company Administration Building, and other structures in the film reflect the architectural style found in Pullman.

What is Pullman's political leaning, and how is it reflected in recent presidential elections?

Pullman is a strong stronghold for the Democratic Party. In the 2020 presidential election, Joe Biden won the Pullman District. Similarly, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama secured significant majorities in Pullman during the 2016 and 2012 presidential elections, respectively, indicating a consistent Democratic voting pattern.

Which Chicago City Council wards include Pullman, and who represents them?

Pullman is located within Chicago's 8th and 9th wards. These wards are represented by Democratic Alderwoman Michelle Harris (8th Ward) and Democratic Alderman Anthony Beale (9th Ward), respectively.

What public transportation options serve Pullman, Chicago?

Pullman is accessible via the Metra Electric Line, with two stations serving the area: Kensington/115th Street station, where most express trains stop, and Pullman/111th Street station, which serves local trains.

Can you name some notable individuals associated with Pullman, Chicago?

Notable individuals associated with Pullman include Robert Fioretti, a former member of the Chicago City Council who was born in Pullman; Mark Konkol, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who resided in Pullman as of 2007; and Darrell Walker, a professional basketball player who attended school in the area.

Which school districts serve Pullman, and what are the local educational institutions?

Pullman is part of the City of Chicago School District #299 and City Colleges of Chicago District #508. The elementary schools serving the area include Schmid Elementary School, Wendell Smith Elementary School, Edgar Allan Poe Classical School, and George M. Pullman School. For high school, most of Pullman is zoned to Corliss High School, with some areas zoned to Harlan Community Academy High School. The main campus of Olive-Harvey College is also located in Pullman.

What is the total land area of the Pullman community area?

The Pullman community area covers a total land area of 2.11 square miles, which is equivalent to 5.46 square kilometers.

What was the population of Pullman according to the 2020 Census?

According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of Pullman was 6,820 residents.

What is the population density of Pullman?

The population density of Pullman is approximately 3,240 people per square mile, or 1,250 people per square kilometer.

What is the median household income reported for Pullman?

The median household income in Pullman is reported as $43,539.

What is the racial composition of Pullman according to the 2020 Census data?

Based on the 2020 Census data, the racial composition of Pullman is as follows: 6.5% White, 83.6% Black, 7.2% Hispanic, 0.1% Asian, and 2.6% from other races.

What time zone does Pullman observe?

Pullman observes the Central Time Zone, which is UTC-6 during standard time (CST) and UTC-5 during daylight saving time (CDT).

What ZIP code is associated with Pullman, Chicago?

Pullman is associated with parts of the ZIP code 60628.

What is the historical context of the Pullman neighborhood's development?

Historic Pullman was developed in the 1880s by George Pullman as a planned industrial town to house workers for his Pullman Palace Car Company. It was designed with specific behavioral standards for residents and included amenities considered advanced for the era.

How did the Pullman Strike impact the relationship between the Pullman Company and its workers?

The Pullman Strike of 1894, triggered by wage cuts and unchanged rents during an economic depression, highlighted the deep conflict between the company and its workers. The strike's eventual resolution involved federal intervention and led to a commission that examined the company's practices, ultimately contributing to the town's later annexation by Chicago.

What is the significance of the Beman Committee in Pullman's revival?

The Beman Committee, named after Pullman's original architect Solon Spencer Beman, plays a role in the revival and preservation efforts in Pullman. It helps administer guidelines for new building and renovation projects to maintain the historic character of the community.

What role did gentrification play in Pullman's recent history?

Since the late 20th century, Pullman has been undergoing gentrification. This process involves residents actively participating in the restoration of their homes and contributing to broader restoration projects throughout the district, which also offers walking tours.

What is the significance of the Pullman National Monument designation?

The designation of Pullman as a National Monument in 2015, and its subsequent re-designation as a national historical park in 2022, recognizes its historical importance and aims to preserve its unique heritage, including the original architecture and the legacy of the Pullman Strike.

How has the population of Pullman changed since 1930, based on census data?

Pullman's population has fluctuated since 1930. It was 6,705 in 1930, decreased slightly to 6,523 in 1940, then rose significantly to 8,899 in 1950. After peaking at 10,965 in 1970, the population has generally trended downwards, reaching 6,820 in 2020.

What is the significance of the Hotel Florence in Pullman?

The Hotel Florence is one of the historic and architecturally significant buildings located in Pullman, Chicago. It stands as a testament to the original design and purpose of the planned industrial town.

What does the name 'Pullman' refer to in the context of Chicago?

In Chicago, 'Pullman' refers to a specific community area on the South Side, known for its unique history as a planned industrial town. It is named after George Pullman, the founder of the Pullman Palace Car Company.

What was the purpose of the Pullman Palace Car Company?

The Pullman Palace Car Company was established by George Pullman and was known for manufacturing railroad cars. The company town of Pullman was built to house the workers employed by this company.

What is the relationship between Pullman and the Pullman National Historical Park?

The Pullman National Historical Park is a designation that encompasses the historic areas of Pullman, Chicago. This park status, achieved through presidential designation and congressional action, aims to preserve and interpret the history of the Pullman community and its significance.

What does the term 'company town' mean in relation to Pullman?

Pullman is a prime example of a 'company town' because it was built and largely controlled by the Pullman Palace Car Company for its employees. This included housing, shops, and behavioral regulations, creating a self-contained community centered around the company's operations.

How did the architecture of Pullman contribute to its identity?

The architecture of Pullman, characterized by its distinctive Victorian rowhouses and public buildings designed by Solon Spencer Beman, contributed significantly to its identity as a planned community. This architectural heritage is a key reason for its landmark status and ongoing preservation efforts.

What does the 'Community Area 50' designation signify for Pullman?

Pullman is officially designated as Community Area 50 within the city of Chicago's planning framework. This classification helps in organizing city services, demographic data, and planning initiatives for the area.

What is the significance of the Pullman Clock Tower and Administration Building?

The Pullman Clock Tower and Administration Building is a central and iconic structure within the historic Pullman district. It has been recognized for its architectural importance and now serves as the Visitor Center for the Pullman National Monument.

What role did George Pullman play in the development of Chicago's South Side?

George Pullman played a significant role by establishing the Pullman Palace Car Company and subsequently building the planned industrial town of Pullman on Chicago's South Side. This development brought a unique model of industrial housing and community planning to the area.

How did the Pullman Strike influence labor relations in the United States?

The Pullman Strike was a pivotal event in American labor history. It demonstrated the power of organized labor, the potential for widespread disruption, and the complex role of the federal government in mediating labor disputes, influencing future labor movements and legislation.

What is the current status of Pullman as a residential neighborhood?

Pullman is currently a residential neighborhood undergoing gentrification, with residents involved in home restoration. It retains its historic architectural character and is recognized as a significant landmark and national park area.

What is the significance of the 'Greenstone Church' in Pullman?

The Greenstone Church is noted as one of the historic and architecturally significant buildings within Pullman, Chicago, contributing to the area's unique built environment.

Pullman Chicago Wiki: Pullman: An Architectural and Social Chronicle

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Pullman: An Overview

Location and Identity

Pullman is a distinct community area situated on Chicago's South Side, approximately twelve miles from the central business district, known as the Loop. It is strategically located adjacent to Lake Calumet. The area recognized as Pullman encompasses a broader region than its historically preserved core, which is designated as a Chicago Landmark district and a National Historical Park.

Architectural Heritage

The neighborhood is renowned for its significant collection of historic and architecturally notable buildings. These structures, largely built in the 1880s, reflect a unique vision for industrial urban planning. Key landmarks include the Hotel Florence, the Clock Tower and Factory complex, and Market Square.

Recognition and Revival

Pullman's historical significance has been formally recognized through various designations, including its status as a Chicago Landmark district, a National Historic Landmark District, and most recently, the Pullman National Monument. These designations underscore its importance in American industrial and social history, driving ongoing restoration efforts and community engagement.

A Chronicle of Pullman

Genesis of a Company Town

Established in the 1880s by George Pullman, Pullman was conceived as a model industrial town to house workers for his Pullman Palace Car Company. Designed by architect Solon Spencer Beman, the community featured distinctive rowhouses equipped with amenities such as indoor plumbing, gas, and sewers, intended to foster a high standard of living for its residents, albeit under strict behavioral and rental conditions.

The Pullman Strike of 1894

Amidst the economic depression following the Panic of 1893, the Pullman Company implemented significant layoffs and reduced wages while maintaining rents. This led to the pivotal Pullman Strike in 1894, a major labor conflict that required federal intervention. An investigative commission later noted that the town's aesthetic features offered little tangible monetary value to the employees.

Integration and Transformation

Following George Pullman's death in 1897, legal mandates required the company to divest the town. In 1899, Pullman was annexed by the city of Chicago. Over the subsequent decade, the city sold the residential properties to their occupants. The neighborhood gradually evolved, retaining its distinctive Victorian architecture while its fortunes remained tied to the Pullman Company for many years.

Deindustrialization and Preservation

Beginning in the 1950s, industrial restructuring and job losses led to a period of decline for Pullman. The neighborhood faced the threat of demolition in 1960 for an industrial park. However, resident activism, through the Pullman Civic Organization, successfully lobbied to preserve the community. By 1972, the Pullman Historic District achieved National, State, and City landmark status, establishing protective guidelines for future development and renovation.

National Recognition

The district's historical importance was further cemented with its designation as the Pullman National Monument in February 2015, later re-designated as a national historical park in December 2022. These designations highlight Pullman's enduring significance as a site of industrial innovation, labor history, and architectural preservation.

Demographic Profile

Population Trends

Historically, Pullman's population has fluctuated, with a peak in 1970. Recent analyses indicate a population of approximately 6,501 in 2017, with a median age of 40, notably higher than the citywide median. The 2020 census recorded a population of 6,820, with a density of 1,250 per square mile.

Ethnic Composition

The Pullman community area exhibits a diverse demographic makeup. While overall census data for the community area shows a significant African American population (82.8% in 2017), specific neighborhoods within Pullman display variations. For instance, North Pullman and Cottage Grove Heights are predominantly African American (around 96-98%), whereas the Pullman neighborhood itself shows a more mixed composition, with a notable Hispanic or Latino presence (36% in one census tract).

Economic Indicators

The median household income in Pullman was reported as $43,539, according to U.S. Census data. This figure provides a key economic benchmark for understanding the community's financial landscape relative to broader city and regional averages.

Cultural Footprint

Cinematic Appearances

Pullman's distinctive architecture and historical ambiance have made it a sought-after location for filmmaking. Notable productions filmed in the area include the critically acclaimed films Road to Perdition and The Fugitive. Additionally, the architectural style of Pullman served as inspiration for the North Pole settings in the animated film The Polar Express.

Media Features

The neighborhood's unique character has also been highlighted in television programming. The HGTV show National Open House featured a Pullman residence, showcasing the preservation efforts and the enduring appeal of its historic homes.

Political Landscape

Electoral Trends

Pullman consistently demonstrates strong support for the Democratic Party. Presidential election results from recent years show overwhelming majorities for Democratic candidates, reflecting the area's political leanings within Chicago's broader Democratic base.

Local Representation

At the municipal level, the Pullman community is represented by aldermen within Chicago's City Council. The area falls within the 8th and 9th wards, served by Democratic alderwomen, indicating consistent local political alignment.

Transportation Access

Rail Connectivity

Pullman is well-served by public transportation, primarily through the Metra Electric Line. Two stations, Kensington/115th Street and Pullman/111th Street, provide access to the commuter rail network. The 115th Street station serves as a stop for most express trains, while the 111th Street station accommodates local services, facilitating connectivity within the metropolitan region.

Educational Institutions

School Districts and Facilities

Pullman falls under the jurisdiction of Chicago Public Schools (District #299) and the City Colleges of Chicago (District #508). Elementary education is provided by institutions such as Schmid Elementary, Wendell Smith Elementary, Edgar Allan Poe Classical School, and George M. Pullman School. Secondary education is primarily served by Corliss High School, with some residents zoned for Harlan Community Academy High School. The Olive-Harvey College campus, part of the City Colleges of Chicago system, is also located within Pullman.

Notable Figures

Community Contributions

Pullman has been home to several notable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. These include Robert Fioretti, a former member of the Chicago City Council; Mark Konkol, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist; and Darrell Walker, a professional basketball player who attended school in the area.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Pullman Chicago" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about pullman_chicago while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

gaeltacht

share finance

the slavonic and east european review

koklass pheasant

architectural association school of architecture

meg ryan

modern liberalism in the united states

light rail

fresh water

california golden bears men's basketball

References

Newcomen, T. (1998) "Pullman, Illinois: Changes in community planning from the 1880s to the 1990s", International Journal of Heritage Studies, Vol. 4, No. 1, pp. 10-29

Reiff, J.L. and Hirsch, S.E. (1989) "Pullman and its public: Image and aim in making and interpreting history", The Public Historian, Vol.11, No. 4 (Autumn), pp. 99-112

Gordon, Alex, Ridin' the reels, Chicago Tribune, October 7, 2007

"Pullman" (Map). City of Chicago. Retrieved on December 19, 2016.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Pullman, Chicago Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not reflect the most current information or nuances of the subject matter.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for expert consultation regarding history, urban planning, architecture, or social studies. Always consult authoritative sources and qualified professionals for specific inquiries.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Pullman: A Planned Legacy

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Pullman: An Overview 🏛️

📍 Location and Identity

🏗️ Architectural Heritage

🌟 Recognition and Revival

A Chronicle of Pullman 📜

🏭 Genesis of a Company Town

✊ The Pullman Strike of 1894

🏙️ Integration and Transformation

📉 Deindustrialization and Preservation

🏛️ National Recognition

Demographic Profile 📊

👥 Population Trends

🌍 Ethnic Composition

💰 Economic Indicators

Cultural Footprint 🎬

🎥 Cinematic Appearances

📺 Media Features

Political Landscape 🗳️

🇺🇸 Electoral Trends

⚖️ Local Representation

Transportation Access 🚆

🚉 Rail Connectivity

Educational Institutions 🎓

🏫 School Districts and Facilities

Notable Figures 👤

⭐ Community Contributions

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Pullman: An Overview

Location and Identity

Architectural Heritage

Recognition and Revival

A Chronicle of Pullman

Genesis of a Company Town

The Pullman Strike of 1894

Integration and Transformation

Deindustrialization and Preservation

National Recognition

Demographic Profile

Population Trends

Ethnic Composition

Economic Indicators

Cultural Footprint

Cinematic Appearances

Media Features

Political Landscape

Electoral Trends

Local Representation

Transportation Access

Rail Connectivity

Educational Institutions

School Districts and Facilities

Notable Figures

Community Contributions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice