Eye & Ear Infirmary

This imposing building has stood on West Taylor Street for over 150 years, a testament to the evolution of medicine in Chicago. Welcome to the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, a beacon of hope for those needing specialized care for their eyes, ears, and the delicate parts of their head and neck. The Infirmary’s roots go back to 1858, when a young physician, Edward Lorenzo Holmes, launched the Chicago Charitable Eye and Ear Infirmary. It was a humble beginning, starting in a single room. But it quickly became a vital resource for the city, treating patients suffering from everything from eye infections to glaucoma. The building we see today wasn’t built until 1963, but the Infirmary’s dedication to research and excellent care has endured through multiple relocations and changes. In 1943, they joined forces with the University of Illinois College of Medicine, furthering their commitment to education and training. It was in the late 20th century that the Infirmary played a role in one of the most important advancements in eye care: LASIK surgery. It was Gholam A. Peyman, a professor at the Infirmary, who, in 1985, helped pioneer this revolutionary treatment. And the legacy of the Infirmary marches on. Its affiliation with the University of Illinois brings cutting-edge technology and research into the forefront of ophthalmology and otolaryngology. The Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary is more than just a building; it’s a story of progress, innovation, and dedication to helping people see, hear, and live their best lives.