Post-WWII - Prosperity for Sollitt Construction Companies

Post-WWII - Prosperity for Sollitt Construction Companies

The post-WWII era marked a period of immense prosperity for the Sollitt family’s construction companies. With the war behind them, Sollitt companies focused on leveraging their wartime expertise to build modern infrastructure, contributing to America’s booming post-war economy.

Post-War Growth

• Industrial Expansion: The Sollitt companies applied their wartime construction knowledge to large-scale industrial projects, such as factories, power plants, and warehouses.
• Commercial Development: They capitalized on the post-war demand for schools, hospitals, and corporate buildings, playing a critical role in shaping the modern skyline.
• Technological Innovation: The Sollitt companies integrated advanced construction methods developed during the war into civilian projects, improving efficiency and durability.

Legacy of the Sollitt Family

All three companies—George Sollitt, Ralph Shannon Sollitt, and Sumner Sollitt—continued to prosper:

• George Sollitt Construction Company: Focused on projects in Chicago, contributing to the city's post-war growth.
• Ralph Shannon Sollitt & Sons: Expanded nationally, maintaining key partnerships with institutions like Notre Dame.
• Sumner Sollitt & Sons: Specialized in military and industrial contracts, ensuring a diverse project portfolio.

Brief Summary

The post-WWII era was a golden age for Sollitt Construction Companies, as their expertise and innovation led to thriving businesses that contributed to America’s economic and infrastructural development.

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Links to Learn More

1. Post-WWII Construction Boom
   • Learn about the massive infrastructure growth during the post-war period.
   • Post-WWII Construction
2. Notre Dame Expansion Projects
   • Discover how partnerships with institutions like Notre Dame flourished post-WWII.
   • Notre Dame History
3. Chicago’s Post-War Growth
   • Explore Chicago’s rapid expansion and architectural transformation during the 1950s.
   • Chicago History Museum

Visiting Related Historical Sites

1. Notre Dame Campus (South Bend, IN)

• What to See: Buildings constructed by Sollitt during the post-WWII era, showcasing modern architectural styles.
• Website: Notre Dame

2. Chicago Architecture Center

• What to See: Take a tour of Chicago’s post-war architectural icons, many of which were influenced by Sollitt projects.
• Website: Chicago Architecture Center

3. National WWII Museum (New Orleans, LA)

• What to See: Exhibits on the transition from wartime to post-war America, highlighting the construction industry’s role.
• Website: National WWII Museum

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