Sollitt & Sons: Builders of Choice in Chicago (1851–1870)

Sollitt & Sons: Pioneers in Chicago's Construction Landscape (1851–1870)

Between 1851 and 1870, the Sollitt family cemented their reputation as premier builders in Chicago, contributing to some of the city's most iconic structures. This period saw the expansion of the Sollitt family's construction legacy and the establishment of not one, but two Sollitt construction companies.

1851: Sollitt & Sons is Established

John and Thomas Sollitt founded Sollitt & Sons in the early 1850s, combining their skills and experience to meet the growing demand for high-quality construction in Chicago. Their firm quickly gained a reputation for excellence, becoming the builder of choice for many significant projects in the city.

1856: William Sollitt Returns from California

After spending seven years in California during the Gold Rush, William Sollitt returned to Chicago in 1856. Bringing with him new insights and experiences, he decided to start his own construction company, Sollitt Construction Company, in 1857. This led to a unique situation where two separate Sollitt firms were operating in Chicago, both contributing to the city's growth and infrastructure.

Civil War Era and Expansion

During the Civil War (1861–1865), Chicago continued to grow as an economic and industrial hub. Sollitt & Sons capitalized on this expansion, becoming one of the largest builders in the city by the end of the war. Their reputation for quality craftsmanship and reliability positioned them as leaders in the construction industry.

Notable Projects: The Palmer House and City-County Building

Sollitt & Sons played a pivotal role in shaping Chicago's architectural identity during this period. Among their most notable projects were:

The First Palmer House (1870): A luxurious hotel commissioned by Potter Palmer, designed to be a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
The First City-County Building: A significant civic structure that highlighted the firm’s ability to handle large-scale and complex projects.

These projects not only showcased the skill and expertise of Sollitt & Sons but also solidified their reputation as builders who could execute landmark constructions.

A Legacy of Excellence

By 1870, Sollitt & Sons had become synonymous with quality and innovation in Chicago's construction industry. Their contributions during this period laid the foundation for the city's transformation into a major metropolitan hub. The Sollitt name had become a symbol of trust and excellence, a legacy that would continue to grow in the years to come.

Historical Context: 1851–1870

1855: The Chicago Board of Trade was established, boosting the city’s economic growth.
1861–1865: The Civil War spurred industrial expansion in Chicago, increasing demand for infrastructure and construction.
1871: The Great Chicago Fire (shortly after this period) would transform the city’s approach to construction.

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