In 1984, architect Michael Shymanski made a discovery in the basement of the old Chicago Historical Society Building that illuminated the history of one of the city's long-lost mansions, the Pullman Mansion. Built for George M. Pullman at the corner of 18th Street and Prairie Avenue in the 1870s, the mansion was designed by architect Henry S. Jaffray and constructed by builder John Dunphy. It boasted furniture and architectural elements crafted by renowned firms such as Pottier & Stymus, Herter Brothers, and A.H. Davenport & Company. For over 50 years, the mansion served as Chicago's social hub until the surrounding area fell into decline in the 1920s. Consequently, the Pullman family auctioned off all its contents in 1921 and demolished the home in 1922.