Events from May 26 in Chicago History
Looking back at significant moments from May 26 in Chicago’s past, as per the Tribune archives, reveals notable events and developments that shaped the city’s history. If an important event from this date appears to be missing, you are encouraged to email us.
1855: Cyrus Bradley as Chief of Police
In 1855, Cyrus Bradley took on the role of Chief of Police in Chicago. Bradley remained in this position until his passing in 1865. He introduced the department’s motto during his tenure: “At danger’s call, we’ll promptly fly; and bravely do or bravely die.”
Weather Highlights
- High temperature: 94 degrees in 1911
- Low temperature: 34 degrees in 1983
- Precipitation: 1.78 inches in 1913
- Snowfall: Trace in 1907
1927: Dedication of Buckingham Fountain
In 1927, one of the world’s largest fountains, the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain, was dedicated. The inauguration took place three months after its construction. Architect Edward Bennet, also known for Wacker Drive and the Michigan Avenue (DuSable) Bridge, designed this iconic structure. French artist Marcel Loyau contributed by designing four seahorses, each representing one of the states bordering Lake Michigan.
Kate Buckingham generously donated the fountain to Chicago as a tribute to her brother Clarence. She set up a $300,000 trust managed by the Art Institute of Chicago to cover its maintenance, sparing taxpayers from the expense. This trust proved valuable during the fountain’s $2.8 million renovation in 1994.
The fountain’s basin, made from pink Georgia marble, drew inspiration from the Latona Basin in Louis XIV’s Versailles gardens. It features 134 jets that emit over 14,000 gallons of water per minute, powered by three pumps. Initially, a computer in Atlanta controlled these pumps, but in the 1994 renovation, it was relocated to a pump house near the fountain.
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