Jennie Foley Building

In 1889, a beautiful four-story structure arose on South Racine Avenue. This was the Jennie Foley Building, also known as the Jennie Foley-Victor A. Arrigo Building. It was a testament to the burgeoning city of Chicago and the dreams of its residents. The Jennie Foley Building wasn’t just a building. It was a vibrant hub of life, combining commercial enterprise with comfortable living. The first floor housed a bustling storefront, while the upper three floors provided homes for six families. Its architecture reflected the era’s aesthetics with hexagonal bay windows catching the light and a metal cornice adorned with ornate scrolls and dentils. Belt courses ran between the floors of the east facade, adding to the building’s charm. The Jennie Foley Building stood as a prime example of the mixed-use buildings common in this area in the late 19th century. This area was the heart of Chicago’s Sicilian community in the early 20th century. Sadly, many similar buildings have been lost to time. However, the Jennie Foley Building continues to tell its story. In 1910, the building’s ownership passed to the parents of Victor A. Arrigo, a prominent Chicago lawyer and politician. Arrigo called the Jennie Foley Building home until his death in 1973. His life and work intertwined with the building’s history. Arrigo’s presence cemented the Jennie Foley Building’s place within the narrative of Chicago’s Little Italy. The building became a witness to the community’s struggles and triumphs. It saw the bustling street life, with horse-drawn wagons carrying produce to and from the nearby South Water Market and Fulton Market. The Jennie Foley Building survived the urban renewal projects that reshaped Little Italy, including the construction of the University of Illinois campus. Today, the Jennie Foley Building stands proudly, a reminder of a bygone era. It serves as a symbol of the resilience and vibrancy of a community. Its designation on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985 solidified its legacy. It continues to share its story with those who take the time to listen.