Rising from the ashes of the Great Chicago Fire stands a testament to faith. This is Unity Tabernacle Church. It embodies resilience and community spirit.
Unity Tabernacle Church has a story etched in fire and rebirth. Imagine the scene. It is October 1871. Flames engulf Chicago. The original Unity Church was built in 1867. But it was tragically consumed by the Great Chicago Fire just four years later.
The fire didn’t extinguish the congregation’s spirit. Rather, it forged an unyielding resolve. Services were temporarily held in a wooden structure. This temporary building was kindly offered by the New England Church. This act of neighborly love highlights the strong sense of community.
In the face of devastation, Unity Tabernacle Church pledged to rise again. The indomitable Rev Robert Collyer led this effort. He preached among the ruins. His words inspired hope.
The new Unity Tabernacle Church building was dedicated on December 7 1873. This marked a new chapter. The reconstruction cost around $91737. Several eminent divines were present. The pastor Rev Dr Robert Collyer had energies to build up the society.
Burling and Adler designed the rebuilt church. It stood east of Washington Park on the North Side. The building measured 136 by 78 feet. The side-walls were 40 feet high. A finial rose 83 feet above the sidewalk. Two lofty towers flanked the front.
The vestibule was spacious. It was 25 feet wide. This prevented crowding. The lecture room measured 56 by 70 feet. It was well-lit and finished in hardwood. Classrooms, a kitchen, and a pastor’s study were also included.
The audience-room held 1400 sittings. Pews of black walnut faced the pulpit. A gallery for the choir and organ was placed behind the pulpit. The organ chamber was ornamented with carved columns. The roof was open-timbered. Bright sunlight streamed through stained glass windows.
In 1903, the Unity Tabernacle Church was sold. It was to be used as a lodge hall. The Medinah Temple Mystic Shrine acquired the structure for $65000. Rev Albert Lazenby resigned.
Alterations were planned. The auditorium was to be enlarged. The pews were to be removed. Chairs would replace them. The organ was to be transferred. The Sunday school room was to be a banquet hall.
Unity Tabernacle Church became the Scottish Rite Cathedral. In 2006, developers planned residential towers. The church facade would be restored.
Today, Unity Tabernacle Church reminds us of Chicago’s ability to rebuild. It stands as a symbol. It embodies faith and community. It inspires us to face adversity with courage. Its walls echo with stories. They tell of tragedy and triumph.