The shimmering gold leaf. That’s what first struck me about Saint Basil Catholic Mission. Before its demolition in 1998 it was a breathtaking sight.
Saint Basil Catholic Mission wasn’t just any church. It held a special place in Chicago’s history. Founded in 1904 it was built from parts of two other churches. The initial masses were held in an unlikely spot an abandoned blacksmith shop. Can you imagine? The very first mass was interrupted by a fire causing $100 in damages.
The first pastor Reverend Thomas E Cox led the predominantly Irish and German congregation. Many worked in the nearby Union Stockyards. Their hard work paid off. A combination church and school was built in 1905. This cost a significant $45000. The parish flourished. In 1913 a new three-story building was constructed adding another church and school for $60000.
Growth led to even bigger plans. A new church designed by Joe McCarthy and William J Williams was built in 1926. It was modeled after the Byzantine church of Saint Sophia in Istanbul. In 1935 Reverend John T Bennett hired John Mallin to decorate the church. This was no ordinary decoration. It cost $14000 using expensive materials. The vibrant red blue and gold Byzantine style was stunning. The apse alone contained $700 worth of real gold leaf.
The neighborhood around Saint Basil Catholic Mission changed. Black families moved in. Unscrupulous realtors caused “white flight” leading to social tensions. Reverend Paul F. Rosemeyer initiated social programs to help. Despite these efforts dwindling Catholic numbers led to its closure in 1990. Saint Basil Catholic Mission merged with Visitation church. The once magnificent structure was razed in 1998. It symbolized the South Side Irish’s economic climb.
The loss of Saint Basil Catholic Mission is a reminder of a community’s journey. It’s a story of growth change and ultimately loss but also of the enduring spirit of faith. The glittering gold leaf may be gone but the memories remain a testament to its remarkable past.