On October 5 , 1887 , President Grover Cleveland laid the cornerstone for the Auditorium Building . The 1888 Republican National Convention was held in a partially finished building where Benjamin Harrison was nominated as a presidential candidate . On December 9 , 1889 , President Benjamin Harrison dedicated the building and opera star Adelina Patti sang " Home Sweet Home " to thunderous applause . Adler & Sullivan had also opened their offices on the 16th and 17th floors of the Auditorium tower
1888 Republican National Convention
1888 Republican National Convention
Auditorium Building (Chicago)