Seven million dollars. That’s how much it cost to build the magnificent structure that stands before us Tilden High School. Imagine the year 1905. This wasn’t just any school. It was a statement. A testament to the growing city of Chicago.
Tilden High School didn’t always stand on this spot. It began life much earlier in 1881 as Lake High School. Nestled in Lake Township it joined the Chicago Public Schools system in 1889 when the township became part of the city. The need for a larger more modern school became clear. The Chicago Board of Education invested heavily. The result is this beautiful building designed by Dwight H Perkins.
This isn’t just a building though. It’s a living history. Tilden has witnessed significant changes. It started as a regular high school. It transformed into an all-boys technical school in 1919. Then it returned to being a co-educational neighborhood high school in 1960. The school’s name changed too. It became Edward Tilden High School in 1915 honoring a prominent Chicago banker and former president of the Chicago Board of Education.
Sadly Tilden’s history also includes some dark moments. Racial tensions in the 1960s led to violent clashes between students. Gang violence also claimed the life of a student in 1992. These events left a lasting mark on the school. Yet Tilden persevered. It continues to serve its community.
But Tilden High School is more than just its past. It boasts a rich athletic legacy. The boys’ basketball team won multiple championships. The wrestling team achieved state-level success. The school also produced remarkable alumni. These include Bill Pinkney the first African-American to solo circumnavigate the globe by sailboat. There’s also Hugo Bezdek a legendary football and baseball coach. He even coached in both the NFL and MLB.
Tilden High School stands as a symbol of resilience. A beacon of education. A place where generations of Chicagoans have learned grown and made their mark on the world. As we continue our tour let us remember the stories etched within these walls. The triumphs the struggles the enduring spirit of Tilden High School.