Chicago Temple Centennial

The Chicago Temple, the dramatic building that houses the First United Methodist Church of Chicago, the First United Methodist Church parsonage, the Chapel in the Sky, and a host of private offices and commercial enterprises, is one hundred years old this year. Dedicated on September 28, 1924, the Temple was immediately one of the most recognizable and noteworthy buildings in downtown Chicago. Today, it continues to attract visitors and worshipers from around the world.

We will celebrate this important milestone throughout the year. Currently, a slide presentation of Chicago Temple construction photographs is on display in the Clark Street lobby of the Temple building. Other items of historical interest are pictured below.

Demolition Of The Methodist Church Block, May 1922
Demolition Of The Methodist Church Block, May 1922
The distinctive Chicago Temple Tower on September 22, 1923
The distinctive Chicago Temple Tower on September 22, 1923
An Early Construction Photograph, September 1922
An Early Construction Photograph, September 1922
Unidentified man sitting atop the Temple cross October 10, 1923
Unidentified man sitting atop the Temple cross October 10, 1923
The Upper Floors Near Completion, early 1923
The Upper Floors Near Completion, early 1923
The completed Chicago Temple (late 1920s)
The completed Chicago Temple (late 1920s)