The Great Gatsby of Chicago: Honoring Benjamin Marshall’s legacy

The Benjamin Marshall Society, spearheaded by Executive Director Jane Lepauw, recently marked a major milestone in its mission to preserve and celebrate the legacy of one of Chicago’s most influential architects. The City of Chicago designated Michigan Avenue and Lake Shore Drive as “Honorary Benjamin Marshall Way,” paying tribute to the architect’s enduring contributions to the city’s architectural landscape.

Benjamin Marshall, whose illustrious career includes the design of the Drake Hotel, the luxurious East Lake Shore Drive residences, the South Shore Cultural Center and the long-lost Iroquois Theatre, was not just a visionary architect but a larger-than-life figure. A true bon vivant, his lavish parties and extravagant lifestyle echoed the glamour and decadence of the Roaring Twenties, drawing comparisons to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “Great Gatsby.”

This year marks the 150th anniversary of Marshall’s birth, a milestone celebrated with a series of events, culminating in a gala at the Drake Hotel following the honorary street sign unveiling. The evening featured a live auction showcasing exclusive items, further supporting the Society’s mission to spotlight Marshall’s artistic and cultural contributions.

Benjamin Marshall’s architectural footprint is etched into the fabric of Chicago, with several iconic structures attributed to his visionary design. Among his most celebrated works is the Drake Hotel, a hallmark of luxury and elegance since its opening in 1920. The East Lake Shore Drive Apartments, often referred to as the "Gold Coast," are another testament to his skill, blending opulence with practicality in one of Chicago’s most prestigious residential districts.

The South Shore Cultural Center, originally the South Shore Country Club, showcases Marshall’s ability to create spaces of grandeur and sophistication. Though tragically lost to fire, the Iroquois Theatre remains a significant part of his portfolio, remembered as an architectural marvel of its time.

Other notable projects include the Edgewater Beach Hotel, once a glamorous lakeside retreat, and the Blackstone Hotel, a beloved Chicago landmark. Marshall’s work not only defined the city’s skyline but also embodied the elegance and innovation of the early 20th century.

Founded to honor and protect Benjamin Marshall’s architectural heritage, the Benjamin Marshall Society engages in a variety of initiatives, from educational programs and historical preservation efforts to advocacy campaigns aimed at fostering appreciation for Marshall’s work and its impact on Chicago’s identity.