Exploring the Salt Shed
We were lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes tour before The Salt Shed opened to the public.
a hub for salt
Now a popular concert venue, the Salt Shed was home to Morton Salt Company from the early 20th century through 2015. During this time, the building served as a hub for salt production, packaging, and distribution. One of the most iconic features of the building is the enormous “Morton Salt” rooftop sign which features the iconic “Umbrella Girl”. The landmarked sign is visible from the Kennedy expressway, making it a destination marker for those commuting into the city.
Throughout the 1900’s, barges carrying tons of salt would travel the Chicago River to the Morton factory where salt would be transferred via conveyor belt to the storage shed. With uses for the salt ranging from pharmaceutical and chemical processing to household uses, water softening and road deicing, Morton Salt became a staple in industrial Chicago, once processing more than 150,000 tons of salt annually.
extensive renovation and restoration
In 2015, the Morton Salt Company relocated, and new owners began an extensive renovation and restoration of the site. In 2021 it reopened at The Salt Shed, an indoor/outdoor live music venue which also supports community events such as makers markets and yoga classes.
The 4000-person venue has quickly become beloved among Chicagoans for its impressive acts, community involvement, and thoughtful renovation. The site retains several original architectural features including the factory’s 4-inch-thick wood floors, iron skeleton frame, Chicago brick, metal warehouse doors, salt elevators, and more. The conveyor belt structure has been artfully repurposed as framing for the outdoor venue while the 50-foot-tall ceilings and column-free space indoors make it ideal for concerts.
Did you know?
In 2014, Morton Salt’s “Umbrella Girl” was voted into the Advertising Week Walk of Fame on Madison Avenue.
Did you know?
In 1922, Joy Morton, the man behind the Morton Salt Company, dedicated his farm in Lisle, Illinois as the Morton Arboretum. Today it comprises over 1,700 acres of trees and flowers that represent plants from all over the world.
Did you know?
16" On Center (16OC) and Blue Star Properties, the developers behind The Salt Shed, are also responsible for the revitalization of Thalia Hall in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood.
