Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center bustles with the constant movement of people. Do you ever wonder about the history hidden beneath its modern facade? The Ogilvie Transportation Center stands on a site with a rich past. It’s a place that has witnessed the evolution of transportation and the growth of a city. The original structure, the Chicago and North Western Terminal, was built in 1911. This grand station, designed by Frost and Granger, replaced the older Wells Street Station. Imagine the elegance of the Renaissance Revival style architecture. Picture the hustle and bustle as passengers embarked on journeys to Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and beyond. The station even hosted the famed trains of the Union Pacific, like the Overland Limited and the luxurious “City” trains.
This wasn’t just a commuter hub; it was a gateway to the West. However, as times changed, so did the needs of the city. In 1984, the grand old station building was demolished to make way for progress. The gleaming Citicorp Center, now known as 500 West Madison, rose in its place. Thankfully, the train service wasn’t abandoned. The Ogilvie Transportation Center found its home within the lower levels of this modern skyscraper. It underwent a major renovation in 1991, a testament to the city’s commitment to public transportation. The station we see today is a blend of old and new. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of Chicago.
The Ogilvie Transportation Center isn’t just a place to catch a train; it’s a place where history and modernity intertwine. As you pass through its halls, remember the countless journeys that began and ended on this very spot.