Palmer Mansion

The Palmer Mansion, built between 1882 and 1885 in Chicago's affluent Gold Coast neighborhood, was once the largest private residence in the city. Designed by architects Henry Ives Cobb and Charles Sumner Frost, it featured lavish interiors and hosted notable guests, including U.S. Presidents and European royalty. After the death of its owner, Potter Palmer, the mansion changed hands and was eventually demolished in 1950, making way for high-rise apartments. The mansion's art collection, including works by renowned artists, was donated to the Art Institute of Chicago, preserving a piece of its opulent history.