[3] Sensing an opportunity, Chicago native George E. Rutledge experimented with the design of the union suit, adding reinforcement for increased wear resistance and altering the weave and construction.

[3] Starting with $10,000 the trio set up a manufacturing operation in Chicago to produce Rutledge's union suits as well as other high-quality men's undergarments.

[3] In 1903, with labor troubles looming, Vassar Swiss moved their production 80 miles (130 km) west to Rochelle, Illinois.

The company contracted real estate developer Stewart Hodges, a specialist in factory construction, to build a new plant, which Vassar Swiss would lease.

"[4] In 1967, production operations were moved from Chicago to Paris, Texas,[3] and as of 2010 the Vasarette name is owned by Vanity Fair Brands, and produces women's underwear.

[3] Baum began redeveloping the building into a space for small businesses dedicated to natural products and the environment, dubbing their project the Green Exchange.

[2] The building is U-shaped in plan, with wings of unequal length backing onto the diagonal railroad track in the rear and flanking a narrow central courtyard.