McCarthy Block
Life Span: 1872-1987
Location: NE Corner of Dearborn and Washington Streets
Architect: John M. Van Osdel
McCarthy Block
October 1951
NE corner of Washington and Dearborn
MCCARTHY Block, built in 1872, at the northeast corner of N. Dearborn and W. Washington streets, fronting 36 feet on the former and 80 feet on the latter, is four stories and one basement high. John M. Van Osdel was the architect. In the early 1880’s this building was part of the Williams Block, 101-21 N. Dearborn street. Also called the Landfield Building.
In 1987, the McCarthy’s landmark status was revoked, and the building was demolished for the intended redevelopment of Block 37. The long-delayed Block 37 retail and office complex opened in 2009. The office building with the address of 22 West Washington occupies the former site of the McCarthy Building.
Excerpted from Chicago Tribune, May 30, 1956
As far as our research has shown the following is the roll call of Loop buildings built in in 1872, the first year after the fire, and are still standing.
McCarthy bldg., southeast corner of Dearborn and Washington. Another maze of fire escapes, arches, bulges, bay windows, gaudy signs and shop fronts.
McCarthy Block part of Williams Block
NE corner of Washington and Dearborn
Robinson Fire Map 1886
Volume 3, Plate 1
Leave a Reply