Sunday, June 16

Historic Pullman Labor History Tour - June 2024

The town’s architecture and amenities embodied Pullman’s ideals. But a critical element was missing – democracy. Then the workers united…

By Historic Pullman Foundation

Date and time

Starts on Sunday, June 16 · 1pm CDT

Location

Pullman Exhibit Hall

11141 South Cottage Grove Avenue Chicago, IL 60628

Refund Policy

Contact the organizer to request a refund.

Eventbrite's fee is nonrefundable.

About this event

2 hours

Entrepreneur George Pullman made a fortune building and operating sleeping cars and other railroad equipment. He had very exacting standards and the name “Pullman” was synonymous with luxury.

Just as he expected high quality in his products and their operation, Pullman’s “model town” was an attempt to carry that same standard to his factory and workforce. Attractive and well-built homes, a school, a church, a library, and a marketplace all reflected George Pullman’s ideals of orderliness, cleanliness, and luxuriousness. However, one critical element was missing – democracy. The town and factory were ruled by the Pullman company and its officers. When workers rose up for a voice in 1894, a national railroad shut-down resulted. Pullman’s reputation suffered as he opposed his workforce.

Co-sponsored by the Illinois Labor History Society and the Historic Pullman Foundation, this tour explores the relationships between George Pullman, his company town, and the men and women who worked at his factory. We will again bring to life a period of conflict and struggle that reflects many contemporary issues – Pullman is where America’s story lives.

Visit the Historic Pullman Foundation's Events calendar for more information. Learn more about Pullman history here and Illinois Labor History here.

Guided tours are available to the public from June through September. Tours depart the Exhibit hall at 1:30 p.m., last about 90 minutes, and cover a walking distance of about a mile.

Click here for open hours and to plan your visit.

Plan Your Visit

Pullman is easily accessible by the Metra Electric train line. Check the schedule and plan your visit Here.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Pullman on Public Transportation?

Pullman is easily accessible via the Metra Electric (ME) to University Park Line. The Metra departs from downtown Chicago at Randolph Street and Michigan Avenue. Exit the train at 111th Street/Pullman. For details, visit: https://ridertools.metrarail.com/maps-schedules/train-lines/ME

s the Pullman Exhibit Hall wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All exhibits and bathrooms are at ground level. If you require additional accommodations please contact us via Eventbrite or at RConant@PullmanIL.org ten business days before the event.

How far is the walk?

The total walking distance is about one to one-and-a-half miles. Tours pause at various spots along the walk. There are occasional spots to sit, but most of the tour is standing or walking.

Organized by

Historic Pullman Foundation

Historic Pullman Foundation is the nonprofit partner of Pullman National Historical Park.

For decades, we have created opportunities for all people to experience and understand the continuing American story that is Pullman.

$0 – $20