Is this where it all began? Right here, at this magnificent Saint James Church? Standing before it, you might not guess that it’s the oldest church of the Anglican Communion in the Chicago area. Founded in 1834, the Saint James Church has witnessed the city’s transformation from wild prairie to the bustling metropolis it is today.
The current structure we see embodies resilience. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 ravaged the city, leaving little unscathed. Saint James Church was no exception. Yet, from the ashes it rose, incorporating the original bell tower that bravely warned the neighborhood of the impending fire. Look closely, and you can still see the soot stains around the tower’s top, a solemn reminder of that devastating event.
Within these walls, history has unfolded. In 1860, a newly elected President Abraham Lincoln graced Saint James Church with his presence. Years later, it was here that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mayor Richard J. Daley met, laying the groundwork for a plan to enforce civil rights laws. The echoes of their momentous meeting seem to reverberate still.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by art and craftsmanship. The baptismal font, a masterpiece in Carrara marble, was sculpted by the talented Augusta Freeman in 1874. Look up and admire the stained glass windows, each telling a Biblical tale, bathing the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors. This, my friends, is more than just a church. It’s a testament to faith, resilience, and the ever-evolving spirit of Chicago.