The Pullman factory was completed in early 1880s and was central to the manufacturing and production of George Pullman’s luxury railroad passenger cars. The complex was a part of Pullman’s vision for an all-inclusive, live-work community for his workers. In keeping with Pullman’s belief that environment was a crucial force in shaping workers’ character, architect Solon S. Beman designed the factory buildings to be both utilitarian and aesthetically pleasing. Pullman’s dream of a model town molding industrious and contented workers failed, and in 1894 his embittered laborers famously went on strike.

After a devastating fire in 1998, the State of Illinois stabilized the North Factory and reconstructed the shell of the Clock Tower Administration Building. The North Factory now features temporary improvements and collections of historic materials.