Commercial Strip
2108-2116 W Devon Ave. Chicago, IL 60659
This small mid-20th century commercial strip, built in 1948, is a great example of the architectural style that defined the development boom along Devon from the late 1940s to the 1970s. The newly settling Jewish community brought with it new businesses, which ultimately changed the street’s vernacular. As new businesses moved into the district, many of the older buildings were given updated storefronts and new buildings were constructed for added retail and commercial space.
A. Nelson was a contributing contractor to this development along the strip, being responsible for this and other commercial buildings on Devon. A notable characteristic of this building are the unified, angled storefronts typical of mid-century retail and commercial buildings, which are also seen throughout the district. The building maintains much of its original shape, and most of the limestone facade and some of the signage is still intact. The abandoned signage hangers on the roof of the structure are a significant testament to the busy commercial district from the mid 20th-century and are likely to be removed as part of the current Alderman’s streetscape initiative. Source: Jennifer Harrman Photo credit: Jennifer Harrman
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