Eighth Regiment Armory: A Monument to Black Military History

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Explore the Eighth Regiment Armory, Chicago: a landmark honoring the legacy of the 'Fighting 8th' and African-American military service.

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Eighth Regiment Armory

The Eighth Regiment Armory in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood stands as the first armory in the U.S. built for an African-American military regiment. Today, it serves as a public high school, commemorating the legacy of the 'Fighting 8th'.

A brief summary to Eighth Regiment Armory

3533 S Giles Ave, Chicago, Douglas, Illinois, 60653, US

Local tips

Visit the nearby Victory Monument to further appreciate the contributions of the Eighth Regiment.
Explore the surrounding Bronzeville neighborhood, rich in African-American history and culture.
Take photos of the armory's impressive architecture, a testament to early 20th-century design.

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Getting There

Public Transport

The Eighth Regiment Armory is accessible via public transportation. Several bus lines stop near the armory, including the 3, 4, 35 and X4. The nearest bus stop is 35th Street & Giles (West), a short walk from the building. You can also take the 'L' train to the 35th St. / 'Lou' Jones station on the Metra Electric Line, which is approximately a 25-minute walk away. A single ride on CTA buses or trains costs $2.50.
Walking

From the Victory Monument at 35th and King Drive, head west on 35th Street, then turn left onto Giles Avenue. The armory will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

Discover more about Eighth Regiment Armory

Located in Chicago's historic Bronzeville neighborhood, the Eighth Regiment Armory holds a place of honor as the first armory in the United States built specifically for an African-American military regiment. Constructed between 1914 and 1915, the armory was home to the renowned 'Fighting 8th' Illinois National Guard Regiment, later known as the 370th U.S. Infantry during World War I.The armory's origins trace back to 1871 with the formation of the Hannibal Guard, a volunteer militia unit that provided African-Americans an opportunity to serve their country amidst racial discrimination. Designed by architect James B. Dibelka, the building features a robust and monumental design with a brown pressed brick and Bedford limestone facade. Inside, it originally housed a clear-span drill hall, meeting rooms, dining facilities, and reception parlors.The 'Fighting 8th' gained recognition for their exceptional bravery during World War I. The regiment was the last to drive German forces from the Aisne-Marne region before the Armistice on November 11, 1918. On September 9, 1998, the Eighth Regiment Armory was designated a Chicago Landmark, solidifying its historical and architectural significance. Today, the building is home to the Chicago Military Academy-Bronzeville, continuing its legacy of service and education. The nearby Victory Monument further commemorates the African-American soldiers of the Eighth Regiment who served in World War I.