The Overton Hygienic Building: 3617-3625 South State

Developed during the first decades of the 20th century, the “Black Metropolis” was home to numerous nationally prominent, African-American-owned and -operated businesses and cultural institutions. This building was constructed in 1922 by noted entrepreneur Anthony Overton, a purveyor of cosmetics for black women. This once-vacant and boarded-up building was threatened with demolition before being rehabilitated by the developer for their own offices in support of the continued revitalization of the Bronzeville neighborhood. The building owners utilized the Cook County Class L Property Tax Incentive, as well as the New Market Tax Credit and the 20% Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit programs to assist the $8.2 million project. The work included the brick and terra-cotta repairs, new windows, new storefronts, a new ‘energy-star’ roof, and a complete interior rehabilitation. The Black Metropolis-Bronzeville District was designated a Chicago Landmark on September 9, 1998. (Photo courtesy of The Davis Group)