Union Stock Yard Gate

“The Morris plant, one of the first packing houses opened and operated at the Union Stock Yard, was to expand into an industrial community of 40 buildings occupying more than 30 acres.”

“Chicago's Union Stock Yard emerged in 1865 as a consolidated market to replace many of the smaller yards operating around the city's periphery. The first recorded move to establish a united stockyard came when the Chicago Pork Packers Association passed a resolution in June, 1864, calling for precisely this action.”

“The present Mary McDowell Settlement, founded in 1894, was one of the first attempts to assist yard workers and their families. By the late 1890s, the Amalgamated Meat Cutters and Butcher Workers of North America had formed a small union which steadily grew in size and influence.”

“Their plans specified widening Exchange Avenue, along with other streets, and consequently, the demolition of the old gate. Through the Commission on Chicago Historical and Architectural Landmarks, the city initiated extensive negotiations with the new owner to save the structure.”

“All ground not landscaped was inset with large paving bricks taken from the stockyard pens. Restoration and site work have been concluded, and the developer has deeded to the city not only the new roadway but also the fully refurbished gate and the land it occupies.”

“The arrival of the eastern railroads revolutionized the industry, enabling livestock to be shipped east year round. A stockyard with hotels, scales, rail connections for receiving and shipping, and facilities for commission men and market reports was built near the terminal of each new railroad to reach the city.”