As Historic Pullman Foundation celebrates 50 incredible years, it’s also a time for looking to the future. HPF is excited to welcome two new members to the foundation staff: Bart Darress, the new Director of Communications & Membership, and Daniela Salgado, the new Tours & Office Coordinator.


“There’s so much growth and dramatic change right now at Historic Pullman Foundation,” said Executive Director Julian Jackson. “Bart and Daniela join an organization that’s poised to do great things.”

Bart has spent his career developing award-winning campaigns at international advertising agencies from Saatchi & Saatchi to BBDO and Deutsch. His work on Fortune 500 brands have garnered some of the industry’s highest honors.

“As Communications & Membership Director for HPF, I hope to use my years of marketing expertise to really tell the Pullman story and connect to a far wider audience,” said Darress.

In a few short years, Daniela went from cashier to running an entire restaurant, managing 15 employees, handling vendor relationships, inventory control, and customer relations, all while keeping track of sales, payroll and finances.

“Myself and the entire board are happy to welcome Bart and Daniela to our team,” said HPF Board President Maria P. Hibbs. “With their help, we can expand communications, grow our membership, and increase Pullman’s visibility to attract a diverse and growing number of visitors to our historic district.”

“Using my people skills, I hope to bring more community engagement, including the Hispanic neighborhoods here on the Southside,” said Salgado.

In addition, Daniela looks forward to bringing her organizational acumen to help streamline the foundation’s day-to-day functions.

“The HPF team has really come together to create a dynamic foundation,” offered Jackson. “I see great things ahead for the organization, and the entire Pullman neighborhood.”

Welcome to Historic Pullman, Bart and Daniela!

Executive Director Position Description

Please submit cover letter and resume to : careers@pullmanil.org

Summary:
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director (ED) has primary responsibility for leading the Historic Pullman Foundation (HPF) in its function as the official philanthropic partner for Pullman National Historical Park (PNHP); operating the Pullman Exhibit Hall; and managing HPF buildings, programs, and collections.  In conjunction with the Board of Directors, and in collaboration with the Superintendent of PNHP, the ED undertakes long- and short-range planning, oversees grant submissions, fundraising, policy development, budget preparation and monitoring, and development of programs, exhibits and services. The ED manages a staff of volunteers, consultants and employees. The ED represents HPF in the community, participates in events which increase awareness of Pullman history, PNHP and of HPF and its mission; expands community outreach, builds strategic partnerships, and performs duties that foster donations.  Salary range is $115,000 to $135,000, commensurate with qualifications.  Position is based in Chicago’s Pullman Historic District.

About Us

America’s Stories Live Here. Since 1973, Historic Pullman Foundation has preserved Pullman’s unique architecture, stories, documents, and artifacts, and educated the public on Pullman’s important place in American history.In 2020, HPF becamethe official Friends Group of Pullman National Monument, now PNHP. Chicago’s first national park is significant for its connection to railroad innovation, two watershed moments in American labor history, its impact on urban planning, and its role in the economic empowerment of Black workers. HPF provides critical support to help the Park to continue to preserve Pullman’s significant historic structures, landscapes, and legacy.

Strategic Planning and Partnerships

  • Regularly meets with the Park Superintendent, and other National Park Service (NPS) staff as needed, to coordinate HPF responsibilities as the philanthropic partner for PNHP.
  • Participates in the development of the Annual Work Plan with PNHP and manages HPF performance. Ensures compliance with Directors Order 21 and other (NPS) requirements.
  • Collaborates with the NPS, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and community partners to provide support for mutual goals and programmatic objectives.
  • Builds and strengthens strategic alliances with institutions, funders, public and private policymakers and researchers to further HPF’s mission and support of PNHP.
  • Facilitates the strategic and annual planning processes for HPF and reporting of goal results.

Resource Development

  • Works with the appropriate committees to create and implement an annual development strategy that includes corporate, foundation, government grants, individual giving and serves as a liaison for corporate sponsors.
  • Inspires a culture of fundraising among Board members.
  • Sets goals for all major fundraising efforts, tracks totals, and reports to appropriate committees. Works with special event committees to create sponsorship levels as well as solicit and process donations.
  • Works to increase membership numbers and member benefits and ensures maintenance of HPF member records.
  • Prepares or oversees the preparation of grant proposals and other resource requests.
  • Guides development and implementation of stewardship strategies.
  • Oversees management of the Retail Store to increase sales revenue stream.

Board Governance

  • Responsible for leading in a manner that supports and guides the organization’s mission as defined by the Board of Directors.
  • Responsible for communicating effectively with the Board and providing, in a timely and accurate manner, all information necessary for the Board to function properly and to make informed decisions. This includes organizing and facilitating periodic Board meetings.
  • Partners with the Board and Advisory Council members as needed, in activities that contribute to HPF’s and PNHP’s success.

Operations and Outsourced Functions

  • Works with the Board of Directors to develop HPF’s yearly budget.
  • Ensures that comptroller and bookkeeper maintain all financial records for monthly and annual reporting and preparation of external auditor’s review of financial records.
  • Stores electronic records in an orderly and accessible system and monitors regular file back-up. Maintains hard-copy files in an organized manner.
  • Ensures adherence to sound business practices and policies as well as compliance with all legal requirements and ethical standards. 
  • Coordinates maintenance of HPF buildings, grounds, and equipment, and provides for safe and reliable operation of the Exhibit Hall.
  • Maintains adequate supplies for operations within budget parameters.
  • Creates job descriptions, hires and supervises staff and/or contractors.
    • Assures all are appropriately trained and adequate staffing is maintained to meet HPF needs and objectives.
    • Creates a congenial atmosphere and environment conducive for recruiting and retaining volunteers.

Programs and Collections

  • Works with the appropriate Committees to develop and implement exhibits for the Exhibit Hall and other venues.
  • Develops innovative approaches to quality programming and exhibitions (both on-site and virtually) that expand audiences and visitors to Pullman.
  • Ensures items owned or donated to HPF are appropriately reviewed, accessioned, conserved, preserved, and cataloged.

Policy & Advocacy

  • Builds positive relationships with partner organizations, policymakers, media and others.
  • Represents the organization by participating in key associations and organizations, serving on committees and advisory groups, and speaking in public settings, as appropriate.
  • Fosters an environment of inclusion, respect, cultural sensitivity, and professional growth.
  • Ensures that all activities and programs meet the highest standards of ethics, governance, and transparency, and are aligned with the core values of HPF and NPS.

External Communications

  • Works with the appropriate committees to develop, implement, and evaluate the annual communications plan to highlight HPF’s initiatives and platforms and promote the success of PNHP.
  • Serves as a spokesperson for the organization and identifies experts on the Board to serve as spokespersons on selected topics. 
  • Oversees the development, distribution, and maintenance of all print and electronic collateral including, but not limited to, newsletters, brochures, annual report and website, delegating implementation to consultants, other staff as appropriate.
  • Uses external presence and relationships to garner new opportunities.

Professional Development

  • Participates in educational activities and associations to keep abreast of the latest development in small museum, NPS Friends Groups and historical society management.

Qualifications and Expertise Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree, with at least 3-5 years of leadership experience in non-profit, government, museums or cultural institutions.
  • Unwavering commitment to carry out HPF’s vision of cultivating, fostering and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.
  • Knowledge, skills, and ability to work with a Board of Directors as it transitions from a working board to a governance and fiduciary board.
  • Strong fiscal management skills.
  • Supervisory skills to manage volunteer and paid staff, financial, and administrative management of an organization.
  • Ability to serve as an articulate spokesperson for HPF.  Strong written and verbal communication skills that can speak to all levels; a persuasive and passionate communicator with excellent interpersonal and multidisciplinary project skills.
  • Experience in development and fundraising, including foundation and government grants as well as corporate and private donations; demonstrated ability to develop partnerships and identify creative solutions.
  • Knowledge of museum professional policies, issues, and strategies.
  • Familiarity with PC environment and knowledge of the following applications: MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, PastPerfect, QuickBooks, and Dropbox; knowledge of G Suite helpful.
  • Adept at social media.
  • Interpersonal and team interaction skills; ability to collaborate with a diverse community and with all standing and ad hoc committees.
  • Passion, integrity, cheerful outlook, mission-driven, and self-directed.
  • Able to work a flexible work schedule, which will include evenings and most weekends.

HPF is an equal opportunity employer. HPF evaluates applicants based on qualifications, merit, and work-related criteria without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Please note all offers of employment are subject to and contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Contact: Julian Jackson, Executive Director 

Email: jjackson@pullmanil.org

Phone: 312.933.6702 

CHICAGO (September 28, 2023) – Historic Pullman Foundation (HPF) has announced that Executive Director Julian Jackson will be stepping down from his position effective Dec. 31, 2023. The move is a planned transition aiming to continue the organization’s growth and impact as the philanthropic partner of Pullman National Historical Park (PNHP). 

“Over the past three years, Julian’s leadership has been instrumental in HPF’s progression from a volunteer organization to a growing, professionally staffed nonprofit supporting the first national park in Chicago,” said HPF Board President Maria P. Hibbs. “Stronger partnerships, expanded communications and fundraising, and new programming have increased Pullman’s visibility and attracted growing numbers of visitors to the historic district.” 

“Pullman National Historical Park has benefited greatly from Julian’s leadership of the park’s official friends group and philanthropic partner,” said PNHP Superintendent Teri Gage. “He has led HPF through a period of dramatic change, managed the grand opening of our new visitor center, and launched the very successful Pullman Railroad Days, which has now evolved into an annual event.” 

An expert in creating engaging visitor experiences in the museum and exhibition field, Jackson will pursue career opportunities in that arena. Jackson joined HPF in 2020 following positions with the Museum of Broadcast Communication, Adler Planetarium and Milwaukee Public Museum. 

“It has been an honor to be the Executive Director of the Historic Pullman Foundation during this important time in the organization’s evolution. I’m proud of the work we’ve done together and continue to be very excited about HPF’s future prospects,” said Jackson. “While my work passions are leading me in a slightly different direction, I plan to continue to vigorously support Pullman and the Foundation.” 

“Though we will miss Julian’s steady leadership, we support his desire to follow his heart in creating spaces and experiences that make ideas come to life,” said Hibbs. 

The Board is convening a search committee to identify an Executive Director and will post the position in October. 

“The Board is pleased that Julian will remain onboard through the end of the year and has offered to assist HPF as a consultant beyond that to ensure an orderly transition. This change will be a strategic step in supporting Pullman’s growth as a cultural destination on Chicago’s South Side,” said Hibbs. 

Added Gage, “It’s been a pleasure working with Julian and I really appreciate his approach to an orderly and strategic succession plan that will ensure a smooth transition into the next phase of growth and development for the organization.” 

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Historic Pullman Foundation became the official philanthropic partner of Pullman National Historical Park in February 2021. Since 1973, we have created opportunities for all people to experience and understand the continuing American story that is Pullman. Visit us at www.pullmanil.org. 

Historic Pullman House Tour is celebrating a milestone 50 years October 7th and 8th, 2023 from 11:00am – 5:00pm. This is one of Chicago’s oldest house tours! Visitors will tour an exclusive group of Pullman’s iconic privately owned historic row homes.

Step back in time visiting one of the nation’s earliest planned industrial worker communities right here in Chicago. The Pullman neighborhood features architecture unlike anywhere else in the midwest. Employees of the Pullman Palace Car Company lived a modern lifestyle: the 1880s town was built with the most advanced comforts of the era that included indoor plumbing, electricity, and gas. Most of the homes have been continuously occupied since they were built. Some remain close to their original design, while others have been modernized.

Take a self-guided tour through a variety of Pullman homes: executive mansions to workers cottages. In addition to the glimpses into residential life in Pullman, Pullman National Historical Park’s Visitors Center will be open (free admission), which houses the former Administration Clock Tower building. Hotel Florence will also be open to visitors, as well as Greenstone Church.

Visit Historic Pullman Foundation’s 50th anniversary exhibit From Wrecking Ball to National Park inside Pullman Exhibit Hall, following Pullman’s journey through the generations of people who have dedicated their time to the common goal of preserving the community they love.

Saturday enjoy the live music of Qombo from 11:00am – 1:30pm, and Sunday, the Mudcats Dixieland Band from 12:30pm – 3:30pm. Classic car show in Arcade Park Sunday from 10:00am – 3:00pm.

Historic Pullman House Tour is sponsored by Historic Pullman Foundation and Pullman Civic Organization.

FIND THE FULL PRESS RELEASE

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Historic Pullman Foundation is the official philanthropic partner of Pullman National Historical Park. Since 1973, we have created opportunities for all people to experience and understand the continuing American story that is Pullman. Visit us at www.pullmanil.org. 

 

The “Advance”, built by the Pullman Company in 1911, is one of the railcars being considered for the exhibit. It was used by Robert Todd Lincoln, President Lincoln’s son, when he was president of the Pullman Company. 

For Immediate Release 

Media Contact: Jeff Philips 
Email: jphilips@kivvit.com Phone: 708.299.4847 

Full Press Release Here

CHICAGO (September 1, 2023) – Today, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Historic Pullman Foundation (HPF) announced a commitment by Norfolk Southern to help create an interactive rail exhibit at the Pullman State Historic Site and Pullman National Historical Park where visitors will experience close up the historic railcars on display, including those once manufactured on the historic site. 

The commitment, including a $250,000 contribution from Norfolk Southern, coincides with the second anniversary of the Park’s grand opening over Labor Day and recognizes the significant historical contributions of Pullman’s impact on the American labor movement, civil rights movement, and railroad transportation. “Displaying these railcars will truly bring to life the story of rail innovation celebrated at the national park and state historic site,” said Joseph C. Szabo, HPF president emeritus and former administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration. At the request of the National Park Service (NPS) and with the support of IDNR, Szabo is facilitating an extensive collaboration involving Norfolk Southern and a range of experts to explore exhibiting railcars at the site. 

“The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is pleased to be part of this exciting announcement,” said Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the department. “The cultural and historical significance of the Pullman site is unparalleled. This kind of collaboration among government, nonprofits, and private enterprise will help ensure the unique story of the Pullman site is brought to life and shared with future generations in a compelling, meaningful way.” 

“Norfolk Southern’s pledge to help bring this exhibit to life underscores our long-term commitment to Chicago and will ensure Pullman’s story continues to evolve and inspire,” said Herbert Smith, Regional Vice President Government Relations for Norfolk Southern. “Rolling historic railcars from different eras directly onto the property will transform Park visitors’ experience. We couldn’t be more excited for the public to see first-hand our nation’s evolution in rail transportation from the beginning.”  

Still in the planning phase, the exhibit is expected to restore about 1,000 feet of rail track and an accompanying rail support yard on the State Historic Site. It would also include a display structure over the support yard in front of the Rear Erecting Shop adjacent to 111th Street to protect the exhibit cars. “If this proposed project is approved, visitors would be able to get a first-hand view of what passenger train travel was like during its heyday,” Szabo said. 

“The iconic Pullman National Historical Park is a critical component of Chicago’s history. After having worked to ensure that the Pullman area has the necessary resources and investment to teach Illinoisans and visitors nationwide about Pullman’s story, I’m pleased to see Norfolk Southern commit to displaying historic railcars at the site,” said U.S. Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL). “The rail cars will add to visitors’ experience and help tell the story of America’s labor and civil rights movements.” 

“Making sure the stories of Pullman – the transformation of our country’s rail travel and the history of the labor movement – are told was at the core of our efforts to preserve Pullman as a National Historic Park,” U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) said. “With this commitment and future exhibit, I’m proud to see Pullman and Chicago’s rich history will be on display for Americans from all over our nation for generations to come. Ensuring our national parks better reflect our nation’s people and history is long overdue.” 

“Bringing historically significant railcars to Pullman’s storied landscape is a major step in safeguarding the rich history of the South Side. These railcars symbolize the innovations that shaped our country’s transportation infrastructure, spotlight the expert craftsmanship of Pullman workers, and are focal points of American labor history and struggle for civil rights,” said U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-02). “I am thrilled that we are able to enhance the accessibility of these invaluable lessons and enable a broader audience to engage, learn, and be inspired by Pullman’s legacy.” 

“In connecting the rail car exhibit to an active rail network, the spur would help park visitors to visualize Pullman’s historic role involving civil rights and fair labor while also demonstrating how the community is continuing to evolve as a center of investment for the Far South Side, the city and the region,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. 

Planning for the project began earlier this year with an engineering and operational feasibility study. The proposed project would include the restoration of a spur track off Norfolk Southern’s Chicago Pullman Branch Line to directly serve the former Pullman railcar manufacturing plant by rail. 

There is great visitor demand for a railcar experience at Pullman, and this is reflected as a Desired Condition and Management Action in the Joint General Management Plan developed by NPS and IDNR. “There is still much work to be done, but the generous support of Norfolk Southern is a vital first step towards the long-term vision for Pullman,” Szabo said.  

Industrialist George M. Pullman built a model town to house workers at his luxury rail car factories in the late 19th Century. Although his goal was “to cure the social ills of the day, the tight control he exercised over his workers helped spark one of the nation’s most widespread and consequential labor strikes and the journey of the Pullman porters toward the civil rights movement of the 20th Century,” according to a report from Congress, which designated the site a National Park in December 2022. President Barack Obama first designated Pullman a National Monument in 2015. 

“The Pullman factory is one of the most fascinating sites in the history of industry in Chicago and in the nation,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “This exhibit showcases the region’s central role in railroading as well as the civil rights and labor movement. Bringing these historic rail cars to Pullman National Historic Park will teach visitors about the past, which is vital to understanding the future.” 

“Pullman is a unique community with deep history that often gets overlooked. Norfolk Southern’s commitment to uplift its charm and historic past speaks volumes to Pullman’s legacy,” said State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-17). “I am proud of the continued steps the Historic Pullman Foundation and Illinois Department of Natural Resources have taken to attract tourism to an area that played a pivotal role in labor history with a rich legacy of lifting up working families.” 

“The Pullman National Historical Park and State Historic Site are an integral part of the community, and it is an honor to welcome this new development,” said State Representative Nicholas Smith (D-34). “With the support of Norfolk Southern and Pullman stakeholders, the expansion of the railcar exhibit will create a unique experience for visitors and continue to highlight the innovative history of Pullman.” 

“The pride of the Pullman neighborhood and South Side of Chicago is on full display with this remarkable railroad partnership. The revitalization and restoration of the community to bring it back to its former heyday as a cultural, social, and economic powerhouse has been many years in the making, but we have written a successful playbook for other neighborhoods throughout the country to replicate. On this Labor Day, I can emphatically state that the Pullman Progress Train has officially left the station,” Ninth Ward Chicago Alderman Anthony Beale said. 

Illinois labor leaders applauded the Labor Day weekend announcement. 

“Preserving the history of the labor movement is important for teaching our children and future generations about how far we have come, and how far we have left to go,” said Chicago Federation of Labor President Bob Reiter. “The Pullman strike in 1894 was crushed bitterly, but directly led to the creation of the Federal Labor Day holiday. Pullman Porters formed the first Black union, right here in Chicago in 1925, but had to fight for another 12 years to get a fair contract. No matter how you look at it, Pullman has a lot of labor history, good, bad, and ugly; that story needs to be told.” 

“We are thrilled to celebrate the history of Illinois’ historic rail industry and its workers” stated Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea. “At a time when investment in our nation’s rail infrastructure and supporting its operators is at a critical turning point, we look forward to helping the public access the important and historical contributions of the Pullman manufacturing site and all that rail workers do to keep our state moving.” 

“SMART-Transportation Division has long supported the Historic Pullman Foundation and its efforts to highlight the vital role workers played there,” stated SMART-TD Illinois Legislative Director Bob Guy. “Rail labor history is incomplete without full recognition of the Pullman workforce and what they meant to our country’s rail transportation. Investments like this will further enhance the Pullman experience, allowing current and future generations to truly appreciate the Pullman workers and their historical contributions to the American labor movement.” 

The estimated cost for the entire exhibit is still under study as part of the planning phase. 

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Historic Pullman Foundation is the official philanthropic partner of Pullman National Historical Park. Since 1973, we have created opportunities for all people to experience and understand the continuing American story that is Pullman. Visit us at www.pullmanil.org. 

Help bring historic railcars to Pullman DONATE HERE

Historic Pullman Foundation is seeking a Tours and Office Coordinator to join our team. The ideal candidate has strong organizational skills; genuinely loves working with people; and thrives in an environment where multi-tasking and thinking proactively come second nature.

The Coordinator will serve in three main capacities: (1) as the primary tour coordinator for HPF and secondarily for the National Park Service and our other partners; (2) Coordinating membership tracking, renewals and benefits; (3) Running the office at Exhibit hall and administrative duties associated with that. The role also serves as an ambassador of the organization to visitors and guests. Occasional weekend and evening hours are a mandatory aspect of the role.

To apply, send a resume, cover letter and contact information for two references to foundation@pullmanil.org. We encourage you to share this with someone you may think is the right fit for this position!

Find the full list of responsibilities, qualifications, and information about HPF’s staff here.

Learn what it takes to preserve a neighborhood’s history at Historic Pullman Foundation’s new exhibition From Wrecking Ball to National Park.

As HPF celebrates its 50th anniversary, the exhibit explores the successes and set-backs on the road to preservation through HPF’s own collection and archives. From Wrecking Ball to National Park follows Pullman’s journey through the generations of people who have dedicated their time and talents to the common goal of preserving the community they love.

From Wrecking Ball to National Park features ephemera, architectural remnants, photos, and rarely exhibited objects from more than 50 years of Pullman’s preservation movement. The exhibit draws on interviews with community members across Pullman and features their own stories and memories in an audio tour that extends out into the neighborhood.

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Thursday through Sunday, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. CT

Entrance for Pullman Exhibit Hall is free but donations are encouraged. All proceeds support Historic Pullman Foundation and its role as the official philanthropic partner of Pullman National Historical Park, National Park Service.

Have a Pullman story to tell, or have an artifact to share? Get involved as we celebrate 50 years throughout 2023. Contact Rebecca Conant for participation or volunteer opportunities at rconant@pullmanil.org.

Find the full press release

Historic Pullman Foundation’s (HPF) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the selection of Maria Pojeta Hibbs as President of HPF.

Hibbs brings to the Historic Pullman Foundation’s Board over three decades of experience leading civic organizations in Chicagoland’s non-profit sphere. As part of a planned transition, she replaces Joseph C. Szabo, who served as President over the past three years during the organization’s transformation to become the official non-profit partner for Pullman National Historical Park. Szabo will remain on the Board as President Emeritus.

Hibbs is Co-Founder and Founding Executive Director of the Chicago Learning Exchange, a non-profit promoting educational innovation and equity of opportunity for young people in Chicago; and was Executive Director of three civic collaboratives at The Chicago Community Trust. She has also served on a number of non-profit boards throughout her non-profit and corporate career. A George M. Pullman scholarship recipient as a first-generation college student, she brings a wealth of leadership experience, philanthropic connections, communications skills, and community building to the Board.

“I am honored to be leading HPF’s Board in celebrating our 50th year of preserving Pullman’s historic structures – and just as importantly, the stories of people and social movements that have helped shape this nation,” Hibbs said. “America’s stories live in Pullman, and we are proud to collaborate with the National Park Service as the official non-profit partner of Pullman National Historical Park (PNHP).”

The park tells the story of America’s first planned model industrial community; George M. Pullman, the sleeping car magnate who created it; and the workers who lived there. Pullman is significant for its influence on railroad transportation, industrial innovation, urban planning and design, and the American labor and civil rights movements.

“As a life-long South Sider, I am thrilled to support the Park as a national treasure and a catalyst for economic opportunity in this part of the city,” Hibbs said. 

HPF has also welcomed three new members to its Board of Directors. They are Colleen Callahan, former Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Founder and Owner of Colleen Callahan Consultancy; Angela Manning-Hardimon, Vice President for Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Illinois Institute of Technology; and Kelwin Harris, a Pullman resident and Director of Outreach and Engagement, Cook County Assessor’s Office.

In 2015, then-President Barack Obama designated the Pullman Historic District a national monument.  Its Visitor Center in Pullman’s iconic clock tower building opened in 2021.The U.S. Congress passed legislation including a provision redesignating Pullman National Monument as a national monument, and President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on Dec. 29, 2022.

Hibbs said HPF plans to partner with the National Park Service and other organizations in Pullman and throughout the region to make PNHP a destination for visitors across the country and around the globe.  

Since 1973, Historic Pullman Foundation has preserved Pullman’s buildings, stories, documents and artifacts and educated the public on its history. In 2021, HPF became the official Friends Group of Pullman National Historical Park – National Park Service. HPF provides critical support to help the Park preserve the significant historic structures, landscapes, and legacy of Pullman National Historical Park. Chicago’s only national park is significant for its connection to railroad innovation, two watershed moments in American labor history, its impact on urban planning, and its role in the economic empowerment of Black workers. Learn more about our work and how you can get involved at pullmanil.org.

Find the full press release

Historic Pullman Foundation’s other Board Members include:

First Vice President Richard Wilson

Second Vice President Natashia L. Holmes

Secretary Douglas Davidson

Treasurer Cynthia McMahon

President Emeritus Joseph C. Szabo

Fred Ash

Jim Badali

Robert Bushwaller

Colleen Callahan

Kelwin Harris

Pat Mahon

Angela Manning-Hardimon

Michael Matejka

Nathaniel Parks

Laura Ruiz-Stephan

Eric Thompson

Historic Pullman Foundation’s annual celebration will take place at Pullman National Historical Park May 20-21

Historic Pullman Foundation (HPF) is thrilled to host its second annual Pullman Railroad Days: People, Progress & Innovation on Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21 at Pullman National Historical Park.

In partnership with Metra, and the American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners, visitors will have access to historic Pullman rail cars from different eras at the 111th Street/Pullman Metra Electric station over the weekend. Included are the 1923 New York Central 3, the 1950 Royal Street Observation, and the 1949 Colonial Crafts.

“We are again excited to be part of this annual event and to host these historic railroad cars at our 111th Street/Pullman Station,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “Our Metra Electric Line is still the fastest, most convenient and most affordable option to get to this event and to visit Pullman National Historical Park.”

Attendees will also have the chance to explore our 50th anniversary exhibit, celebrating our decades of work on preserving, interpreting, and promoting Pullman’s rich history. The Pullman Exhibit Hall will host this exciting time capsule of America’s story, steeped in the resiliency and ingenuity of its people and its built landscape. “The exhibit speaks to the power of an engaged community,” said Historic Pullman Foundation President Joseph C. Szabo. “So many have toiled for so long, and it serves as a great example of how people in action can make a difference.”    

Through a virtual reality experience, hosted by Norfolk Southern, visitors will be able to pop on a pair of VR goggles and see how advanced technology fuels America’s freight railroads. Plus, using a locomotive simulator, learn what skills it takes to operate a railroad locomotive.

With guided tours of the Pullman National Historical Park grounds, activity booths, and food and entertainment, there will be something for everyone at Pullman Railroad Days. Stay up to date with added programming via www.pullmanil.org and our Facebook page.

“We look forward to Pullman Railroad Days in May,” said Pullman National Historical Park Superintendent Teri Gage. “It’s such a great opportunity to explore Pullman National Historical Park, learn about the Pullman Company’s role in railroad history, and experience actual luxury Pullman cars! A family-friendly weekend of fun and learning in Chicago’s first national park. Pullman Railroad Days is quickly becoming the signature event of Historic Pullman Foundation and for train enthusiasts around the nation.”

The weekend-long event will be a mix of free events and a single-ticket entry for others. Historic Pullman Foundation Members get a 10% discount on ticket sales. Advance purchase tickets receive a 20% discount and special early access each morning from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. to the historic Pullman Railcar display.  Lines tend to get long in the afternoon. Click here to join for your exclusive Pullman Railroad Days offer. 

Save by purchasing advance tickets by May 14. Day-of admission will be $30. 

Historic Pullman Foundation is the official nonprofit ‘Friends Group’ 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.

Find the full release

Image courtesy of NPS

News Release Date: December 30, 2022

Legislation signed by the President on December 29, 2022, includes a provision that changes the designation of Pullman National Monument to Pullman National Historical Park. The historic Pullman community was designated a national monument by President Obama in 2015, making it the first National Park Service unit in Chicago.   

The park tells the story of America’s first planned model industrial community, the sleeping car magnate who created it, and the workers who lived there. The park is significant for its influence on railroad transportation, industrial innovation, urban planning and design, and the American labor and civil rights movements. The Pullman Strike and Boycott of 1894, and the establishment of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in 1925, are watershed moments in American labor history. 

Park Superintendent Teri Gage commented, “This is a very exciting and meaningful change for Pullman and yet another tribute to all of the Pullman neighbors and partners who have worked for decades to preserve this beautiful historic neighborhood. We are so appreciative of the Illinois delegation for their recognition and support of this special place. The name change will help visitors better understand the resource and what they can expect to experience at Pullman.” 

While the name change is effective immediately, Superintendent Gage indicated that it may to take several months to update signage, exhibits, and publications to reflect the new designation. 

The park staff looks forward to celebrating this change in the near future and to working with Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the City of Chicago, and park partners to spread the word about Pullman National Historical Park. The National Park Service will continue its collaborative work with park partners to protect this very special place in Chicago and to provide an outstanding visitor experience. 

Find the full release