A New Beginning: John Sollitt’s Move to North America (1830)

In 1830, John Sollitt took a bold step to move his family from England to North America, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Sollitt family’s legacy. This decision came after the devastating York Minster Cathedral fire, which left him and his brothers without work. The move would eventually lay the foundation for their success in Chicago and beyond.

A Journey Across the Atlantic

The York Minster Cathedral fire was a turning point for John Sollitt. Faced with limited opportunities in England, he decided to move his wife and son to North America in search of better prospects. The family first settled in Hamilton, Canada, where they stayed for a year. During this time, John assessed the opportunities available in the region and began planning for the future.

Settling in Chicago

In 1831, John Sollitt moved his family to Chicago, a growing city with immense potential. Chicago, at that time, was transitioning from a small settlement to a thriving hub of commerce and trade. With construction projects increasing rapidly, John found work plentiful. Recognizing the demand for skilled builders, he sent for his two brothers to join him. Together, they began laying the groundwork for what would eventually become one of Chicago’s most enduring construction companies.

The Growth of Chicago

In the early 1830s, Chicago was on the brink of rapid expansion. The construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal had begun, attracting settlers and businesses to the region. The Sollitt family’s arrival coincided with this growth, providing them with ample opportunities to showcase their skills and establish themselves as respected builders.

A Legacy Takes Root

John Sollitt’s decision to move to North America marked the beginning of the family’s journey toward becoming leaders in the construction industry. The skills and values they brought from their work at York Minster Cathedral were instrumental in shaping their success. Their contributions to Chicago’s development not only helped the city grow but also solidified the Sollitt family’s place in its history.

Historical Context: 1830

North American Growth: The 1830s saw significant population growth and urbanization in North America, creating opportunities for skilled laborers and tradesmen.
Chicago’s Emergence: The construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, along with the city’s strategic location, made Chicago a key player in the region’s development.
The Industrial Revolution: Advances in tools and techniques during the Industrial Revolution transformed the construction industry, allowing for faster and more efficient building.