West Chicago gives 2012 Historic Preservation Award

West Chicago, Illinois: May 22, 2012 - Almost 85 years ago, architect Robert H. Salisbury shared his intention for a building he designed to serve as a central landmark for downtown West Chicago, Illinois.

"According to the plans, this will undoubtedly be the most imposing structure in the City," he told the West Chicago Press on November 24, 1927.

Salisbury would be pleased by the community stewardship and special recognition that the building at 213-215 Main Street received from the West Chicago Historical Preservation Commission at last night's city council meeting where it received a 2012 Historic Preservation Award.

Constructed by Harlow Belding for a cost of $45,000, the Classical Revival Style building with Art Nouveau detailing, has earned a place in the ranks of West Chicago's distinguished downtown architecture. The first tenant which occupied the first floor of the building from 1928-1962 was Mell and Mell. The establishment sold general merchandise and groceries. Aunt Polly's Bakery was also located in the building from 1928-1946. Illinois Bell leased the second floor in 1928 as a telephone exchange. Currently, it is home to the St. Vincent DePaul Society resale shop.

The building's unique terra cotta facade is alive with sculptural texture. A return to classical styling is evident on the ornate window crowns which feature paired urns, center shields and floral scrolls. The shield decoration is repeated at the center roofline, where it is graced by three fleurs-de-lis. Two end panels have shields, with soft draping folds and tassels below.

"Our City values buildings such as this one because it is our link to the past, and celebrates our City's unique identity," said Acting Mayor Ruben Pineda.

Visit www.westchicago.org to view a before and after photo of the recent facade improvement on this building.