Marshall Field and Company Building

ChicagoUnited States of America 41° N · 87° W

The Marshall Field and Company Building is an architectural and cultural jewel nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Loop District, embodying over a century of…

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Marshall Field and Company Building

Introduction

The Marshall Field and Company Building is a pillar of Chicago’s architectural, cultural, and retail heritage. Located at 111 North State Street in the heart of the Loop, this iconic structure—now operating as Macy’s State Street—blends Beaux-Arts and Classical Revival styles with the innovative steel-frame construction of the Chicago School. Dating back to its phased construction between 1892 and 1914, the building has set benchmarks in retail innovation and civic engagement, and remains a magnet for architecture aficionados, history buffs, shoppers, and tourists alike.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for your visit: up-to-date hours, ticketing and accessibility details, historical highlights, insider tips, and must-see features. Whether you are captivated by the world’s largest Tiffany glass mosaic ceiling, the legendary Great Clocks, or the celebrated Walnut Room, this guide will help you make the most of your time at one of Chicago’s most treasured landmarks.

For authoritative information and deeper exploration, refer to Macy’s official website, the Chicago Architecture Foundation, and detailed historical records at HMDB. Additional perspectives can be found at Evendo and The Vintage Traveler.

Historic corner of State Street and Washington Street with old buildings and vintage cars
A historic perspective image showcasing the corner of State Street and Washington Street with vintage architecture and old automobiles, reflecting a bygone era.
Freight train leaving Marshall Field and Company's basement in Chicago tunnel fields
Historic image of a freight train made by Kilbourne & Jacobs leaving the basement of Marshall Field & Company in Chicago tunnel fields
Inter Ocean Building Chicago Directory Map 1905
Historic 1905 directory map of the Inter Ocean Building in Chicago showing businesses and offices
Historic Masonic Temple building next to the new Marshall Field and Company Building in Chicago
Photograph depicting the historic Masonic Temple alongside the new Marshall Field and Company Building in Chicago, showcasing architectural contrast and urban development.
Marshall Field and Company department store entrance decorated with evergreen trees and festive lights on State Street Chicago with parked cars
Marshall Field and Company department store entrance on State Street in Chicago adorned with holiday decorations including evergreen trees and festoons with automobiles parked along the street.
Marshall Field & Company building exterior in 1905 with street intersection, carts, and wagons in Chicago Loop
Historic 1905 exterior view of the Marshall Field & Company building located at 111 North State Street, Chicago Loop, showing street intersection with carts and wagons.
Marshall Field and Company retail store building in Chicago with bustling street scene
Historic color postcard image showing the Marshall Field and Co. retail store building in Chicago, Illinois, featuring commercial architecture and busy urban activity
Marshall Field store window display with colorful and artistic patterns
Photograph of a vibrant and artistic window display at the Marshall Field store featuring colorful patterns and designs
Marshall Field historic department store window display with holiday decorations and mannequins
Photograph of the Marshall Field department store window display showcasing holiday decorations and mannequins dressed in seasonal attire
1937 Federal Art Project poster showing an 18th century sailor using a sextant for National exhibition Index of American Design
1937 silkscreen color poster from the Federal Art Project promoting the National exhibition Index of American Design at Marshall Field and Co., featuring an 18th century sailor using a sextant, Work Projects Administration Poster Collection
Night view of State Street in Chicago looking south with illuminated buildings and street lights
Night scene of State Street in Chicago looking south, featuring vibrant illuminated buildings and street lights creating a lively urban atmosphere

Origins and Early Development (1834–1892)

Marshall Field, born in Massachusetts in 1834, moved to Chicago in 1856 and quickly became a pioneering figure in American retail. Under his leadership, Marshall Field & Company introduced revolutionary practices such as unconditional refunds and the now-famous motto, “the customer is always right.” These customer-centric values transformed shopping into an inclusive, social experience and set the standard for department stores nationwide.

Vision, Construction, and Expansion (1892–1914)

The Marshall Field and Company Building was constructed in phases between 1892 and 1914, with prominent architects Daniel H. Burnham and Charles Atwood at the helm. The building occupies an entire city block and is recognized for its innovative steel-frame construction, which allowed for vast, open retail spaces and grand architectural flourishes (Wikipedia; e-a-a.com).

Architectural Mastery and Key Features

Beaux-Arts and Commercial Style Synthesis

The exterior of the building features granite and terra cotta, symmetrical façades, and impressive columns, characteristic of Beaux-Arts design. The steel-frame structure, a hallmark of the Chicago School, enabled expansive windows and uninterrupted interior spaces, which were essential for retail display and customer flow (e-a-a.com).

Structural Innovations

At its completion, the building was among the world’s largest department stores, ultimately reaching over 2 million square feet of retail and office space (playeatlas.com). Architectural innovations included open atria, grand staircases, and escalators, all designed to enhance the shopping experience.

Iconic Elements

The Great Clocks

The two monumental bronze clocks at the corners of State & Washington and State & Randolph streets have been Chicago landmarks since their installation in 1897 and 1902. These ornate timepieces are cherished meeting spots and photo opportunities (architecture.org).

Tiffany Glass Mosaic Ceiling

Stretching across 6,000 square feet and composed of over 1.6 million pieces of iridescent glass, the fifth-floor Tiffany mosaic ceiling is the largest of its kind in the world. Designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany and completed in 1907, it remains a breathtaking centerpiece (architecture.org; evendo.com).

The Walnut Room

Established in 1907, the Walnut Room was the nation’s first department store restaurant. With elegant wood paneling and soaring ceilings, it is famed for its holiday traditions, especially the display of the Great Tree (playeatlas.com).

Cultural and Civic Significance

Retail Innovations

Marshall Field and Company pioneered customer service innovations, including bridal registries, in-store restaurants, and a focus on making shopping a pleasurable social activity (architecture.org). The store was designed as a welcoming space for women and families at a time when such experiences were rare.

Social and Urban Impact

As a commercial and civic anchor, the building spurred development in the Loop and provided thousands of jobs. Its enduring presence and landmark status have made it a destination for Chicagoans and visitors interested in architecture, history, and retail (e-a-a.com; Wikipedia).

Visitor Information

Location and Getting There

  • Address 111 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602
  • Public Transit Accessible via CTA Red, Blue, Brown, and Green Lines (State/Lake station), and multiple bus routes. Millennium Station (Metra) is a short walk away (Evendo).
  • Parking Several garages are nearby, but public transit is recommended due to limited and costly parking.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

  • Hours Typically, open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM. Hours may vary seasonally or for holidays; always confirm at the official Macy’s website.
  • Tickets General admission is free; special events or guided tours may require advance booking or purchase (Evendo).

Accessibility and Family Friendliness

  • Wheelchair accessible Elevators and accessible restrooms throughout.
  • Family amenities Family and accessible restrooms on multiple levels; strollers are welcome, though the building can be crowded during peak times.
  • Service animals Welcome.
  • Lost and Found Located at Customer Service on the lower level.

Shopping, Dining, and Services

  • Retail Spanning multiple floors, offering everything from designer fashion to Chicago-themed gifts and Marshall Field’s memorabilia, like Frango Mints (The Vintage Traveler).
  • Dining The Walnut Room (7th floor) is renowned for its elegant setting and classic dishes; reservations are highly recommended during the holiday season.
  • Personal shopping Complimentary by appointment.
  • Visitor Center Located on the lower level for information, maps, and tax-free shopping services for international guests.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

  • Best times Weekday mornings or early afternoons; avoid holiday weekends for lighter crowds (The Savvy Globetrotter).
  • Holiday events Don’t miss the Walnut Room’s Christmas Tree and the famous holiday window displays.
  • Store navigation Use store directories at entrances or the Macy’s app for easy wayfinding.

Seasonal Events and Guided Tours

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Photography, Etiquette, and Safety

  • Photography Non-commercial photography is permitted; professional equipment may require permission.
  • Etiquette Respect both the historical setting and current shoppers/staff.
  • Safety The building is patrolled by security; emergency exits are clearly marked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the building’s visiting hours?
A: Typically, Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sunday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM. Confirm at the official website.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No; entry is free. Certain events or tours may require advance tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, occasionally. Check the Macy’s events page or Chicago Architecture Foundation for details.

Q: Is the building accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes; all public areas are wheelchair accessible.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Non-flash, non-commercial photography is generally allowed.

Q: What are the best times to visit to avoid crowds?
A: Weekday mornings or early afternoons, outside of holiday season.

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