No, this CPA has nothing to do with certified public accountants.

This was originally the home of the Conductors Protective Assurance Co., an insurance company of sorts for train employees. If railroad workers lost their jobs or were unable to work because of injury or illness, they could receive a payment from the CPA. Hence why it was built across Michigan Avenue from Michigan Central Station.

Designed by Alvin E. Harley in the Neoclassical style, the building was opened for occupancy on Nov. 1, 1924, with a branch office of the First National and Central Savings on the first floor.

In 1977, a drive-through banking canopy was attached to the west side of the building.

The building housed many different tenants over the years but has been abandoned for over two decades and is in pretty rough shape inside.

More on this building coming soon.