By Railfan & Railroad Staff

CHICAGO — The national monument on the site of the Pullman Company’s Chicago factory and company town has been redesignated as a National Park. On December 29, President Joe Biden signed legislation creating the Pullman National Historic Park. 

The Pullman Company dates back to the 19th century and built and operated a fleet of sleeping cars across the country. 

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. The site became a national monument in 2015.

“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,” said Park Superintendent Teri Gage.

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. 

To learn more about Pullman National Historical Park, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/pull and follow the park on Facebook and Instagram @PullmanNPS.