Before us stands the Former Chicago Historical Society Building a testament to Chicago’s enduring spirit. This imposing structure didn’t spring up overnight. Its story is one of resilience triumph and remarkable growth mirroring the city itself.
The Chicago Historical Society formed in 1856. Its ambitious goal was to preserve and interpret the city’s history. A rather insightful mission considering Chicago was only incorporated in 1837. Their early collections however suffered a devastating blow. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed their first building. Incredibly just three years later another fire consumed their temporary storage. These setbacks didn’t break the Society’s spirit.
They rebuilt again and again. Henry Ives Cobb designed their third building. A magnificent Romanesque structure it became a Chicago and National Historic Landmark. This impressive building stood at the corner of Dearborn and Ontario Streets. The Society thrived here for decades. Their collection grew to include incredible treasures including Abraham Lincoln’s final draft of the Emancipation Proclamation. This draft was donated to the Society after being sold at a fundraising event for Civil War soldiers.
But even this impressive structure wasn’t enough. By 1932 the Society had outgrown its space. A new building was needed a structure that would reflect the city’s ambition and burgeoning stature. The Works Progress Administration WPA stepped in. They constructed a new building in a single year. This incredible feat of construction resulted in the stunning Federal-style building we see today.
Designed by Graham Anderson Probst & White this fourth iteration of the Chicago Historical Society building was a marvel. It boasted expanded exhibition space. The modern design incorporated elements that showcased Chicago’s progress. The building was expanded twice more in the decades that followed. These expansions enhanced its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Today the Former Chicago Historical Society Building stands as a silent witness to Chicago’s history. It’s a symbol of perseverance and a testament to the city’s captivating past. The building’s story is inextricably linked with that of Chicago a story of loss recovery and remarkable growth. It stands as a reminder that even amidst the flames of adversity the spirit of Chicago endures and its history deserves to be preserved and celebrated.