08 Sep another late 19th century chicago two-flat and 1902 church building heading towards oblivion

yet another largely intact late 19th century chicago two-flat with incised joliet limestone window hoods is undergoing demolition. the roof and railings had been ripped off when i arrived. 

after leaving the defaced house, i drove about a mile away to document a former synagogue (completed in 1902) that was issued a demolition permit earlier this week. 

Congregation Beth El was an early congregation on the Northwest side, founded in 1871. It was orginally known as Rodef Sholom. In 1902, the congregation moved to Wicker Park, then again in 1925 to a Logan Square address, and now resides in Northbrook.

Between 1925 and the 1970s the building was home to the Original New Morning Star M. B. Church which has also relocated to the West Garfield Park neighborhood.

One can easily see the dual Christian/Jewish faith history of the building examining the English and Hebrew text inscribed in the ogee arches of the double doored entrance.

One cant help but wonder if the Congregation Beth El is aware an important building in the history of their organization is about to be demolished to make way for six “luxury” condos starting at well over half a million dollars.

Because the lot is considerably larger than the standard 50 foot wide lot it was particularly desirable.

As with many churches and synagogues of this age, there is a real possibility that the corner stone contains some kind of time capsule. It remains to be seen if any message from the builders of this former synagogue has been left behind, perhaps even from as far back as 147 years ago when the Congregation Beth El began, the same year of the Great Chicago Fire.

Because the building had alterations to its exterior, it was considered a ‘green’ rated building and not subject to the demolition delay ordinance.