Protecting Travelers - The State Police Headquarters
This building was home to state troopers who risked their lives every day patrolling Route 66. By the 1940s, Route 66 carried more traffic than any other highway in the state. The Illinois District 6 State Police Headquarters was built here in 1941 to provide easy access to the “Hard Road.” It closed in 2003 when a new headquarters opened in Pontiac.
The architect allegedly designed this building in the shape of a Derringer pistol, as seen when viewed from above. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March 2007. The building showcases the Art Moderne style of architecture, popular in the 1930s, with long linear lines, curved corners, and structural glass.
Even after I-55 diverted most of the traffic from Route 66 in 1977, the men and women of District 6 continued to proudly serve Illinois from this building.
The architect allegedly designed this building in the shape of a Derringer pistol, as seen when viewed from above. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March 2007. The building showcases the Art Moderne style of architecture, popular in the 1930s, with long linear lines, curved corners, and structural glass.
Even after I-55 diverted most of the traffic from Route 66 in 1977, the men and women of District 6 continued to proudly serve Illinois from this building.
