Located at 1027 West Madison Street, it was constructed in 1872 in the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire by Charles C. P. Holden.

The Holden Block, despite being located in a declining neighborhood and falling vacant in the mid-20th century, survived these developments and was designated a Chicago landmark in 2011.

The building is located in an area that was commercial before it declined in the 20th century, being deemed "skid row" after World War II; gentrification began in the 1980s.

[4] Their dominance was short-lived, however, as skyscrapers began to replace them about 20 years after their construction, and most blocks were demolished during the 20th century to make way for new development.

[6] Although many surrounding buildings were demolished starting in the 1970s to make way for redevelopment, the Holden Block survived and was designated a Chicago landmark in 2011.

[16] The 1894 fire destroyed its western section and south and west walls; those were rebuilt under the plan of architect John M. Van Osdel while retaining the original facade.

[15] The block's neighborhood, previously commercial, started to decline in the early 20th century, and became known as "skid row" after World War II; the building itself also fell on hard times, being vacant in 1954.