Chicago Landmark facts for kids

The Chicago Board of Trade Building is a well known Chicago Landmark

A Chicago Landmark is a special title given to important buildings and places in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The Mayor of Chicago and the Chicago City Council decide which places get this title. It means these sites are very important to the city's past and future.

Once a place is named a Chicago Landmark, it gets special protection. This means that if anyone wants to change the building or site, they need to get a special permit. This permit is reviewed by a group called the Landmarks Commission. This helps make sure these special places stay safe and look good for many years.

What Makes a Place a Chicago Landmark?

Places are chosen to be Chicago Landmarks for many reasons. They must meet several important rules. These rules help decide if a building or site is truly special enough.

Why Are Places Chosen?

Buildings and sites are picked based on their importance. This can include their:

• History: Was something important built or did something big happen here?
• Architecture: Is the building unique or a great example of its style?
• Art: Does the place have special art or design?
• Culture: Does it show how people lived or what was important in the past?
• Social Impact: Did it play a role in how the community grew?
• Economic Value: Was it important for jobs or business in the past?

Protecting Our History

The main goal of the Chicago Landmarks program is to protect the city's history. By giving places this special title, Chicago makes sure they are cared for. It helps everyone remember the stories and people that shaped the city.

National Recognition for Landmarks

Many Chicago Landmarks are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list kept by the United States government. Being on this list can help get money to keep these places in good shape.

Some Chicago Landmarks get an even higher honor. They are named National Historic Landmarks. This means they are important not just to Chicago, but to the whole country. These sites get even more protection from the government.

Images for kids

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  Glessner House, chosen on October 14, 1970, was one of the first official Chicago Landmarks.