Second Leiter Building - Definition and Overview

Second Leiter Building built in Chicago between 1889-1891

The Second Leiter Building also known as the Sears Building is one of the most important buildings in the history of American architecture. This landmark located on 403 South State Street in the city of Chicago has gained its fame for being one of the first commercial buildings to have metal skeletal frame. Built in 1891 by Levi Leiter the Second Leiter Building was designed by architect William LeBaron Jenney who implemented the skeletal frame made of cast iron to make the design fireproof. The building was leased by Sears, Roebuck & Co. to become its flagship department store and still stands to this day. Its predecessor the First Leiter Building was built at Wells and Monroe in 1879 but unlike its successor the building was demolished in 1972. The Second Leiter Building was designated a landmark on January 14, 1997.