Beneath the bustling city, a hidden gem awaits. Ogden Plaza offers a tranquil escape. It’s a 1.38-acre park nestled in the heart of Streeterville, Chicago. This urban oasis honors William B. Ogden, Chicago’s first mayor. He was a visionary leader who guided the city through the Panic of 1837. Ogden Plaza isn’t the first park to bear his name. Another park on Chicago’s south side was dedicated to him in 1905. Ogden, originally from New York, arrived in Chicago in 1835. Just two years later, he was elected mayor. Ogden’s impact on Chicago extends beyond his mayoral duties. He made his fortune in real estate and reinvested heavily in the city’s development. He backed Chicago’s first railroad, the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad. This later became part of another Ogden railway, the Chicago and Northwestern. He also contributed to the construction of bridges and streets. He even donated land for schools and churches. In 1857, Ogden co-founded the Chicago Dock and Canal Company. This company aimed to develop the north bank of the Chicago River for industrial purposes. Interestingly, a young Abraham Lincoln served as legal counsel for the company. Fast forward to the mid-1980s. Developers envisioned Cityfront Center, a mixed-use development on land owned by the Chicago Dock and Canal Trust. This trust was a successor to Ogden’s firm. In 1988, the trust donated just over an acre to the Chicago Park District. This land became Ogden Plaza. Designed by Lohan Associates in 1990, Ogden Plaza is a multi-level space. It features trees, benches, and a striking sculpture. “Floor Clock II” by Vito Acconci serves as the plaza’s centerpiece. Ogden Plaza isn’t just a park; it’s a living testament to a man who shaped Chicago. It stands as a peaceful reminder of the city’s rich history, amidst the modern urban landscape.
Congregation Or Torah
Rabbi Zvi Engel’s leadership guides Congregation Or Torah. This impressive Modern Orthodox Synagogue stands proudly in Skokie Illinois. It’s one