The Chicago building that once housed The Warehouse, the legendary club considered the place where house music took shape, has been recognized as a cultural and architectural asset by the Chicago City Council.
The three-tiered nightclub at 206 S. Jefferson St. known as The Warehouse began as a place with members-only entrance, and was popular with black homosexual men. But it quickly became what Preservation Chicago called a “freedom dance floor” for a more diverse crowd.
The decision was made June 21, by the Chicago Commission, after a process that began in April. A decision that follows a campaign and petition led by architectural preservation group Preservation Chicago. The Frankie Knuckles Foundation was also fundamental in raising awareness for the campaign.
The building previously had no historic protections, opening the possibility of its demolishment after being sold in December to attorneys Shneur Nathan and Avi Kamionski, according to Cook County records.
“House music is part of Chicago’s DNA, but this historic designation is a victory for music lovers everywhere,” Preservation Chicago spokesman Max Chavez told Resident Advisor . “It declares that the movement started here with Frankie Knuckles and will forever have a permanent place in Chicago’s history.” He continued, “This moment is in large part thanks to the members of the public who spoke out in favor of saving The Warehouse, further proving that house is not just about the music, but also about the community.” Chavez previously said that a real estate ad had labeled the building a “redevelopment opportunity,” which raised concerns and eventually led to the launch of the campaign. In the absence of any historic protection, it could have been “torn down virtually without any kind of delay,” he said.
The temple of ‘house music hours is saved, years of history could have been erased!
