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Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse: A Monument to Labor History

Step back in time at the Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse, a landmark of American industrial history and labor rights in Chicago's Pullman district.

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The Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse, located in Chicago's historic Pullman district, marks the entrance to the former Pullman Company town. Built in the late 19th century, it stands as a reminder of the area's complex industrial past and the lives of the Pullman workers.

A brief summary to Pullman Main Gate And Gatehouse

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours for the best experience and photography opportunities.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Pullman National Monument for a deeper understanding of the area's history.
  • Check for any special events or historical reenactments that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse via public transport, take the Metra Electric Line to the 111th Street-Pullman Station. After arriving, walk through the station house and down the stairs, then head east (right turn) to Cottage Grove Avenue. Cross the street to the park and walk north (left turn) one block. The Visitor Center, adjacent to the Gatehouse, will be on your right at the corner of 111th and Cottage Grove. A single ride on the Metra Electric Line costs between $3.75 and $6.75 depending on the zone. Alternatively, you can take CTA bus route #111-Pullman or #4, which stops at the corner of 111th and Cottage Grove. CTA bus fare is $2.25 per ride.

  • Walking

    If you are arriving from the 115th Street–Kensington Station, it's about a 5-block walk to the Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse. Exit the station on Front Street, turn left towards 115th Street, then left again to head east on 115th Street (under the viaduct) to Cottage Grove Avenue. Cross at the light, turn left (north) and proceed four blocks up Cottage Grove to 111th Street. The Visitor Center is on the corner of 111th and S. Cottage Grove Ave.

  • Driving

    When driving to the Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse, note that the parking lot entrance is located on 111th Street. From I-94 (Dan Ryan and Bishop Ford expressways), exit at 111th street (#66A) and head west. Turn right into the Visitor Center parking lot after the third light, after the Rocktenn sign. Parking is free. Be careful not to drive through the historic stone worker's gate.

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Discover more about Pullman Main Gate And Gatehouse

The Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse is a significant historical landmark in Chicago, serving as the gateway to the Pullman Historic District. Constructed in the late 1800s, the gatehouse once controlled access to the company town of Pullman, established by George Pullman to house and serve the workers of his Pullman Palace Car Company. The architecture of the gatehouse reflects the Victorian style prevalent during that era, featuring detailed brickwork and ornamental designs. These details offer a glimpse into the original design of the town, which was intended to be a model industrial community. The gatehouse is a reminder of Pullman's vision, which sought to create a superior living environment for his employees to boost productivity and morale. However, the site is also associated with the tumultuous labor relations of the time. The Pullman Strike of 1894, one of the most significant labor events in American history, saw workers marching through these very gates to protest wage cuts and poor living conditions. The strike eventually led to federal intervention and significant changes in labor laws, making the gatehouse a symbol of the struggle for workers' rights. Today, the Pullman Main Gate and Gatehouse is part of the Pullman National Historical Park, preserving the legacy of this unique chapter in American history. Visitors can explore the surrounding district, including the Pullman National Historical Park Visitor Center, to learn more about the town's history, architecture, and social impact.

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