Standing tall in the heart of Rockford, Illinois, the Ziock Building is a testament to the city’s industrious past and its vibrant future. Known by locals as the Amerock Building or the Tower Building, this historic skyscraper has been a significant landmark since the early 20th century. With its rich history and recent transformation, the Ziock Building offers visitors a unique glimpse into Rockford's industrial heritage and its modern-day renaissance.
The story of the Ziock Building begins with William H. Ziock, Sr., a woolen goods maker from Hattingen, Germany. After immigrating to the United States in 1847, Ziock eventually made his way to Rockford, Illinois, where his son, William H. Ziock, Jr., would expand the family business. In 1912, the younger Ziock announced plans to construct a ten-story building to house his growing enterprises. By late 1913, the building was completed, becoming the tallest structure in Rockford at the time.
The building's design was not just about height; it was about efficiency. Ziock consolidated all his companies under one roof, including B-Z-B Knitting, Ziock Paper Box Company, and King Company. This strategic move streamlined operations and set the stage for future expansions. In 1920, a thirteen-story addition was completed, further cementing the building’s status as a hub of industrial activity.
As the Ziock enterprises thrived, the building attracted other businesses. In 1928, the Aldeen Company began producing hardware within its walls. The company, founded by Swedish immigrants Gedor and Ruben Aldeen, eventually rebranded as the American Cabinet Hardware Corporation. By 1940, they had become known as Amerock, a nod to their American and Rockford roots. In 1946, Amerock purchased the building, making it their headquarters and a symbol of their success.
The building saw its final expansion in 1950, with a six-story addition. However, by the mid-1950s, parking constraints led Amerock to relocate, although they continued to use the building for storage. Through the decades, Amerock’s dominance in the retail kitchen products market was challenged by foreign competition, leading to significant changes in the company’s operations.
By the 2000s, the Ziock Building stood largely abandoned, a silent witness to Rockford's changing industrial landscape. Yet its historical significance was undeniable. In 2011, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, opening the door for potential redevelopment aided by historic tax credits.
In 2015, Gorman & Co. purchased the building with a vision to transform it into a modern hotel and convention center. Renovations began in 2018, and despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center opened its doors in July 2020. This marked a new chapter for the Ziock Building, blending its storied past with contemporary hospitality.
Today, visitors can explore the Ziock Building’s many offerings. The hotel features a range of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, arcade, fitness facility, and gift shop. The conference center hosts events and gatherings, making it a bustling hub of activity once again. For a taste of local flavor, the Rockford Roasting Company has a location on the first floor, offering delicious brews to guests and locals alike.
One of the highlights of the building is its top-floor restaurant and rooftop bar, which opened to the public in July 2020. Here, visitors can enjoy exquisite dining with panoramic views of Rockford, providing a perfect blend of history and modern luxury.
The Ziock Building stands as a testament to Rockford's rich industrial heritage and its ongoing evolution. From its early days as a manufacturing powerhouse to its current role as a center for hospitality and events, the building embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines the city.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Ziock Building offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a vibrant vision of the future. As you explore its halls and enjoy its amenities, you'll be part of a story that continues to unfold, celebrating Rockford's legacy and its bright future.
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