Market Square

	Market Square - Quick Facts
HSP Category	Landmark

Historical Significance:

Market Square is one of the first integrated and artfully designed shopping centers in this country. On the cutting edge of municipal planning, it was one of the first retail centers planned around motor vehicles. Constructed in 1916, architect Howard Van Doren Shaw blended Italian Renaissance, Tyrolean, Bavarian, Flemish, and English architecture in the three sides of the U, which enclose an attractive park area that contains a fountain later dedicated to this Square's architect. The open end of the U faces the historic train station and prominent on both sides of the square stand two towers - one of which displays a clock, the other a sun dial. Distinctive entrances to various shops are highlighted by brick trimmed with light colored Bedfore limestone, stucco surfaces finished on hollow building tile and solid oak timbering. The Square is on an intimate scale and with picturesque charm. The NSDAR plaque is dedicated both for civic involvement and events.

Historical Designations:

City Landmark

Historical Marker:

Marker date: May 12, 1984
State of Marker Organization: Illinois
Marker Organization: North Shore Chapter NSDAR, Lake Forest, Illinois
Marker Text: In Recognition of Market Square, established 1916, the first unified and artfully designed shopping center in the country and in acknowledgment of its historic and cultural contribution to the community, this plaque is dedicated to Arthur T. Aldis and Howard Van Doren Shaw.

Acknowledgement: In May 1984, Market Square was selected as the site for the NSDAR historic marker. In 2004, the plaque was re-set in Lake Forest's Market Square by the city as part of the overall square removation project. The chapter has since ensured that it is respectfully maintained since its re-installation in the Square.

Form submitted by North Shore Chapter NSDAR Lake Forest, IL

Funding:

Currently - at over a century past of its visionary beginnings, a management company has since purchased the Square from descendants of the original investors and continues its legacy and a celebration of its history. The central green remains a focal point for community activities and civic involvement - such as with fairs, exhibits, and shows as well as the annual and iconic Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies. The City of Lake Forest works in conjunction with the management company to ensure that the Square conforms to the historical prescripts of zoning and preservaton.

Physical Condition:

Preserve

Tourist Information:

Open to public: Yes
Family friendly: Yes
Hours/Days: Community site is an open-air mall, with central park area open 24/7 all year
Lodging: Yes
Calendar of Events: Yes - Website link - www.shopmarketsquare.com

Select a State to Explore our Historic Properties

Units Overseas

Directions and application forms can be found on this page or in the Forms section of the DAR members' website.

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