Three fixtures taken from the Lexington Hotel in Chicago: a single bulb light fixture, a two-pronged duel outlet cover, and a door lock (non-functioning). All three are presented on a 9.75 x 5 cloth-covered board. In very good condition, with expected age wear.
In 1928, Capone negotiated what amounted to a takeover of the entire Lexington Hotel at 2135 South Michigan Avenue, and it soon became notorious as the mobsters well-guarded fortress. After Capone went to jail in 1932, the Lexington, soon renamed the New Michigan Hotel, later closed after the Levee action had all but vanished, and it was left to deteriorate. In later years many gangland historians, curiosity-seekers and souvenir hunters slipped inside the building and salvaged whatever was convenient. The here-offered electrical outlet probably dates back to the hotel’s early days, while the door lock appears to be of more recent vintage. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from well-respected gangland historian Bill Helmer.
RR Auction COA.
