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Chick House: A Glimpse into Rockford's Past

Explore the historic Chick House in Rockford, IL: a landmark blending Greek Revival & Italianate architecture, dating back to 1857.

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The Chick House, built in 1857, stands as one of the oldest commercial buildings in Rockford, Illinois. Originally the Griggs House hotel, it was renamed in 1888 by Thomas Chick and operated as a hotel until 1951. Its architecture blends Greek Revival and Italianate styles, offering a unique contrast to neighboring buildings.

A brief summary to Chick House

  • 119 S Main St, Rockford, Downtown, Illinois, 61101, US

Local tips

  • Explore the surrounding downtown Rockford area, filled with shops, cafes, and other attractions.
  • Visit nearby attractions such as the BMO Harris Bank Center, Riverfront Museum Park, and the Coronado Performing Arts Center.
  • Take a stroll along the Rock River to enjoy the scenic views and explore other historical sites.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Chick House is located in downtown Rockford at 119 S Main St, easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From the Rockford City Market, walk south on Main Street for about 5 minutes. The Chick House will be on your left, across from the BMO Harris Bank Center.

  • Public Transport

    The Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) provides bus service to the downtown area. Several routes stop near the Chick House. Check the RMTD website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is approximately $2.00.

  • Driving

    If driving, approach the Chick House via Main Street. Parking is available in nearby garages such as the Concourse Garage (211 S Church St) and the Metro Garage (301 W State St). Hourly rates range from $5-$17, and daily rates can reach $10-$17. Be aware that parking may be limited during events at the nearby BMO Harris Bank Center.

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Discover more about Chick House

The Chick House, located at 119 S Main St in downtown Rockford, Illinois, offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. Constructed in 1857 as the Griggs House hotel, it was financed by Rockford residents Dr. R.P. Lane, Thomas D. Robertson, and Charles H. Spafford. In 1888, Thomas Chick purchased the hotel and renamed it the Chick House. The Chick House operated as a hotel until 1951, later serving various commercial purposes. In 2004, the City of Rockford acquired part of the building, aiming to redevelop this historic property. The building's architecture combines Greek Revival and Italianate styles, a simple yet elegant design that stands in contrast to the neighboring Stewart Building. Key features include its windows, stone sills, and dentil moldings. The Chick House is one of only three remaining pre-Civil War commercial buildings in downtown Rockford and the only intact 19th-century hotel building still standing. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1997, solidifying its importance to Rockford's heritage.

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