03 Jan frank lloyd wright-designed exterior leaf fragments salvaged from adler and sullivan’s 1892 victoria hotel join bldg. 51 museum collection

the bldg. 51 archive and museum recently acquired the only known frank lloyd wright-designed fragments salvaged from adler and sullivan’s victoria hotel (1892) during its demolition in 1961.

the following images were taken by richard nickel in early 1961 of adler & sullivan’s victoria hotel (1892-93) before it was destroyed by fire (only days before its scheduled demolition). the exterior ornament was designed by frank lloyd wright, who left the firm shortly before the hotel was completed.

sections of the richly foliated exterior staff (e.g., column capital segments and frieze panels) were saved by richard nickel and others. the three-story hotel was located on the northwest corner of illinois and halsted streets, chicago heights, ills.

images courtesy of eric j. nordstrom and the bldg. 51 archive. all rights reserved. 2025.