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Gaylord Building: A Canal-Side Landmark

Explore the history of the Illinois and Michigan Canal at this beautifully restored 1838 landmark in Lockport, Illinois.

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The Gaylord Building, constructed in 1838, is a historic limestone warehouse in Lockport, Illinois, that played a vital role in the construction and operation of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Today, it serves as a gateway to the I&M Canal National Heritage Area, offering historical exhibits, art galleries, and fine dining.

A brief summary to Gaylord Building Historic Site

Local tips

  • Visit the Illinois State Museum Lockport Gallery, located in the historic Norton Building, just a block away from the Gaylord Building.
  • Take a walk or bike ride along the scenic canal trail to explore Lockport's National Register Historic District.
  • Check out the changing art exhibitions at Gallery Seven, located on the second floor of the Gaylord Building.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Gaylord Building is located in downtown Lockport, easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions like Lincoln Landing and the Illinois State Museum Lockport Gallery. From the intersection of 9th Street and State Street (Illinois Route 171), walk west on 8th Street for one block. The Gaylord Building will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    Pace bus routes 832 and 834 serve Lockport, with stops at 9th Street and State Street, a short walk from the Gaylord Building. From the bus stop, walk west on 8th Street for one block to reach the building. A one-way fare on Pace is $1.75.

  • Driving

    The Gaylord Building is located at 200 W 8th St, Lockport, IL 60441. From Interstate 355, exit onto 167th Street/IL-7 West and follow IL-7 W/S State St into Lockport. Turn west onto 8th Street. Free parking is available in public lots west of Archer Avenue, along Archer Avenue, and in the Norton Building commuter lot on Renwick Road.

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Discover more about Gaylord Building Historic Site

The Gaylord Building stands as a testament to the Illinois and Michigan Canal's pivotal role in shaping the American Midwest. Built in 1838 in Lockport, Illinois, this handsome limestone warehouse was initially used to store construction materials for the canal. The canal, completed in 1848, connected the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico, transforming Chicago into a major transportation hub. After the canal's completion, the Gaylord Building transitioned through various commercial ventures. In the mid-19th century, it was owned by George Gaylord, a prominent Lockport merchant. In 1983, Gaylord Donnelley, his grandson, spearheaded a restoration project that revitalized the derelict building. Today, the Gaylord Building is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and managed by the Gaylord Building Historic Site. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the canal's history, admire art in Gallery Seven, and dine at the Public Landing Restaurant. The building also serves as a starting point for exploring the surrounding Lockport National Historic District and the I&M Canal National Heritage Area.

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