City Within a City: The Biography of Chicago’s Marina City

1980s

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‘A police officer has been shot’

The story of James J. Riordan, the highest-ranking Chicago police officer killed in action.

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Condo auction draws bargain hunters

Despite high prices, attractive financial packages fueled interest in 31 condo units.

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WFLD moves on

WFLD’s tenure at Marina City saw significant developments in Chicago’s television landscape.

Thumbnail for William Goodstein, first condo association president
William Goodstein, first condo association president

The rise and fall of Marina City’s first condo board president.

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The Texan

Ellison Trine Starnes, Jr.’s tumultuous journey through Marina City was a roller coaster of financial success and failure.

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The bankruptcy trustee

When Marina City Associates declared bankruptcy, Marina City’s commercial property was put under the stewardship of trustee Ilene F. Goldstein, who navigated a complex web of creditors for 12 years.

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Dear Mr. Tarkington

Letters shed light on the maintenance struggles of Marina City’s commercial property.

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One final insult

The much-anticipated sale of Marina City’s commercial property ends in surprise and disappointment.

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Bankruptcy case 88-17840

Once a symbol of optimism, financial turmoil had left Marina City deteriorating.

9 stories
Marina City: The Definitive History of a Chicago Landmark
Upcoming Book

Marina City: The Definitive History of a Chicago Landmark

Trope Publishing Co.

Publication date: February 16, 2027

No other residential building in the United States has a more interesting history than Chicago’s Marina City. Discover the comprehensive story behind this architectural icon.