Islamic style building, 7900 S. South Chicago Avenue
Islamic style building, 7900 S. South Chicago Avenue
Posted by: Mercer52 ()
Date: December 06, 2013 10:30AM

I am having trouble finding background history on this amazing building. Does anyone know its history?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mercer52/11236354044/

Re: Islamic style building, 7900 S. South Chicago Avenue
Posted by: PKDickman ()
Date: December 06, 2013 12:01PM

According to Landmarks and the IHPA, The architect was Frederick Stanton and it was built in '28.
According to the trib archives, it was originally a restaurant called "Raphael's".

BELIEVE IT OR NOT--A CHICAGO RESTAURANT: Minaret Will Feature New Persian Cafe
Chicago Daily Tribune (1923-1963) [Chicago, Ill] 24 June 1928: B3.

Abstract (summary)

Something somewhat different in the way of architecture hereabouts may be seen next fall at the southeast corner of Stony Island avenue and South Chicago avenue, at 79th street. For construction recently started there on a two story restaurant building, the design of which...

Re: Islamic style building, 7900 S. South Chicago Avenue
Posted by: WayOutWardell ()
Date: December 06, 2013 02:29PM

It was designed to reference the Avalon Theater but aside from that they're not otherwise related.

Lee Bey had a piece about this building a few years ago in one of his columns.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 12/06/2013 02:34PM by WayOutWardell.

Re: Islamic style building, 7900 S. South Chicago Avenue
Posted by: Mercer52 ()
Date: December 06, 2013 02:41PM

Once again, Forgotten Chicago forum members have the answer. Thanks so much!

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