Why is this Interesting?

Apr 29, 2025 - I stumbled upon this doorway here in my hometown of Belleville, IL. It’s so unassuming you could easily walk by and never notice it. However, for me, there are couple of things that captured my attention, but equally created curiosity. First, my focus is drawn to the simplicity of the door against the black painted brick. Second, there is something about brick with weathered paint that creates really interesting textures, especially when it starts to peel. Third, the light is even virtually casting no shadows. Given those observations, what interests me most are the three places where a former window has been replaced with brick. You can see the curved tops of the windows that create a interesting pattern against the façade of the building. What happened here? Who and what used to occupy this building? And why did they brick the windows and paint it all one black color? Buildings have stories to tell and this one certainly deserves more exploration to capture its soul.