Nestled close to sister cities Geneva and Batavia, St. Charles has had its share of notable and infamous residents and visitors. Rumor has it that Al Capone frequented St. Charles to hide from the authorities and visit a speakeasy somewhere on Route 25.

Yagla Engineering Services, Inc. is proud to be a part of St. Charles having completed the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design of Prairie Winds of St. Charles, a luxury apartment complex.

Incorporated as a city in 1839, St. Charles is home to a number of historic buildings, notably the Hotel Baker and Arcada Theatre. 

Hotel Baker

Built by Colonel Edward J. Baker, who was inspired by the Spanish Romantic Revival architecture, the hotel opened in 1928 to much fanfare. The hotel included retail and service stores in addition to the fifty-five rooms and luxurious public spaces. Dubbed the Honeymoon Hotel for two decades of its history, the highlights are the Rainbow Room and the Trophy Room. The Rainbow room was named for the spectrum of lights that illuminate the floor. The Trophy room houses Baker’s horse racing trophies. The Hotel Baker is listed in the National Record of Historic Places.

Arcada Theatre

Lester and Dellora Norris built the Arcada to provide entertainment and enjoyment in a lavishly decorated theatre that pays homage to Spanish and Native American culture in its design. Since it’s opening in 1926, scores of top tier talent from George Burns to Martin Short have performed there. Fulfilling its purpose as a spot for entertainment, the Arcada has featured first- and second-run movies, live music, and solo performers. It is in the National Register of Historic Places because of its importance to the community.