The Brooks brothers had purchased the Honoré Block in 1889 but debated whether it should be the future home of the Marquette Building.

Having secured the permits in 1891, they had time to deliberate over their plans. The Honoré Block operated as a hotel during the World’s Fair, and at the end of 1893, Aldis launched construction and began wooing tenants to the new space. As people learned of the Marquette Building’s height and elaborate details, anticipation grew.

© John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation