Whispers of history echo within these walls. Welcome to St Gertrude Catholic Church a jewel of Edgewater. This magnificent structure wasn’t always so grand. Its story began on January 3 1912. Catholic families in North Edgewater needed a church. Many were immigrants from Germany Ireland and Luxembourg. They settled in a diverse area. It ranged from grand lakeshore mansions to smaller homes and apartments. The land was once part of Nicholas Kransz’s farm.
Initially a portable church served the growing congregation. It stood on Granville Avenue. By December 1 1912 Archbishop Quigley dedicated a new three-story building. This combined church school and assembly hall. The present limestone addition wasn’t part of the original design.
The 1920s saw rapid growth. Rev Bernard C Heeney the pastor envisioned a permanent church. Annual fundraisers at the Edgewater Beach Hotel helped. By 1929 a rectory and convent were completed both designed by James Burns. These were additions to the original building.
Then came the Great Depression. On November 30 1930 the cornerstone for the new church was laid. Amazingly construction finished November 15 1931. The limestone for the facade had been paid for beforehand. This English Gothic masterpiece is a testament to community resilience.
James Burns again served as architect. Matt Rauen a parishioner was the contractor. The exquisite stained glass is from Franz Mayer in Munich Germany. The soaring Gothic arches are a marvel of design. No columns obstruct the altar view from any of the 650 seats. The five altars are made of Italian Carrara marble detailed with gold mosaic and Pavonazzo. The Kilgen pipe organ cost $18000. The total cost of construction was a substantial $225000.
The facade boasts intricate stone carvings. Acorns grapes cornucopia a bridge bell keys bird and pineapple are symbols of welcome. Floral patterns and religious figures like a dove and olive branch a prophet’s face a bell and four Gospel writers enhance the Gothic style.
St Gertrude’s continues its mission. The parish is restoring this architectural gem. A repainting of the interior is underway. The work is transforming this wonderful space. St Gertrude’s stands as a beacon of faith community and history in the heart of Chicago. This church truly is a testament to enduring faith and enduring beauty.