Gaze upon the Dearborn Observatory. Its limestone walls whisper tales of celestial discoveries. This isn’t just a building. It’s a portal to the cosmos. A place where the universe’s secrets were once unveiled.
The Dearborn Observatory stands proudly on Northwestern University’s Evanston campus. Its history stretches back to 1862 the year of the Chicago Astronomical Society’s founding. A momentous year. It also marks the discovery of Sirius B. This was a companion star to Sirius. The brightest star in the night sky. Alvan Graham Clark discovered it. He used the then largest telescope in the US. The 18 1/2 inch refractor housed within the Dearborn.
The original Dearborn Observatory wasn’t here. It stood at Douglass Park in Chicago. It housed the impressive 18 1/2 inch refractor. This giant telescope was quite the marvel. Its original tube and mounting are now at the Adler Planetarium. A testament to its fascinating history.
But the Dearborn Observatory’s journey is filled with twists and turns. In 1887 a deal was struck. Northwestern University would house the telescope. A new observatory was built. The Richardsonian Romanesque style building we see today. James B Hobbs a society member and trustee provided funding. The cornerstone was laid in 1888. The dedication happened in 1889.
The Chicago Astronomical Society and the Observatory were closely linked. However financial troubles arose. In 1930 the Society transferred ownership to Northwestern. This was under the condition of public access.
The observatory wasn’t always in this exact spot either. In 1939 it had to move. This was to make way for a new Technological Institute. This explains why the observatory stands slightly off the main campus path.
Even the telescope itself underwent changes. In 1911 the original lens received a modern mounting. Today the Dearborn Observatory is still active. Its 18 1/2 inch refractor is used for astronomy classes. It opens to the public every Friday night. A living link to the past. A window to the universe’s wonders. It’s more than just an observatory. It’s a legacy. A testament to human curiosity. A reminder of our place among the stars.