REMOVAL AND RESTORATION OF STATUE AT FORMER MONTGOMERY WARDS ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

Iconic Spirit of Progress statue, beacon of what is now One River Place Condominium Association in River North, to betemporarily removed for repair and restoration

On Saturday, December 14th, One River Place Condo Community successfully removed the statue of the Spirit of Progress from the roof at their building at 758 N. Larrabee Street, the former Montgomery Ward Administration building at Chicago & Larrabee. Diana (who is named and patterned after Diana, the Goddess of the Hunt) has perched over the building and the Chicago skyline since 1929.

The Board and Homeowners are proud to be preserving this icon of the Chicago skyline, and look forward to reinstalling her with much fanfare in 2025.

The 22.5 foot state is pictured above Larrabee Street with Michael Goldwater, who is a Board Member and Treasurer of River North Residents Association in addition to being President of One River Place Condominium Association

See Full Press Release Below

 Chicago, IL December 9, 2024: The Board and Homeowners of One River Place Condominium Association

located at 758 N. Larrabee Street, Chicago Avenue at the east bank of the Chicago River, are performing projects to maintain and restore the building and important elements that contribute to its historic presence in Chicago. As part ofthose projects we are pleased to announce the restoration of the iconic statue crowning our building: Diana The Spirit ofProgress. We are proud to be maintaining this important aspect of the Chicago skyline.

History: The building was originally constructed in 1927, and in 1929 the tower was constructed at the northeast cornerof the building and a statue of Diana, Spirit of Progress (sometimes referred to as the Goddess of the Hunt) was erectedon top of that tower. Standing 22.5 feet tall, this statue is an icon of the Chicago skyline and has been featured in manyart works and images.

The building along with the original Catalog House building across the street were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. We are presently seeking City of Chicago Landmark status. The Statue was installed in its present location by A. Montgomery Ward. It is a replica of the bronze statue at the former Montgomery Wards office at 2 N. Michigan Avenue, which was created and patterned after the statue on top of the Agriculture Building at the1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

Details on removal: The statue will be removed via crane on December 14, 2024 and sent to the renownedConservations of Sculpture and Objects Studio for restoration, and repair. The statue will be repaired over the winterand reinstalled in Spring of 2025. Crane placement will begin 8:00 AM Saturday December 14th. While Larrabee Streetand the adjoining sidewalks will be closed for safety reasons, it is expected that viewing of the removal will be possibleon the north side of Chicago Avenue. We invite you to visit and document this historic restoration project. After thestatue’s restoration and repair occurs over the winter, we expect to reinstall Diana at her place of honor in Spring 2025.We will also notify you once this reinstallation is scheduled.

One River Place expects to welcome Diana back with much fanfare.

 Source of history/more information:

Wikipedia article about the Montgomery Ward complex

Chicagology article -good overview Chicagology article with more detail Smithsonian Art Catalog Article

National Register of Historic Places registration

Ignite the Spirit Fund – Chicago

Support Your Firefighters

Are you looking for a way to give back to those who selflessly serve our community? Look no further than Ignite The Spirit. As a charity established by the Chicago Fire Department, we provide crucial funding and resources to our brothers and sisters in need, as well as to our community as a whole. Through a variety of fundraising events and donations, we’ve been able to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. And now, you too can get involved in this impactful effort. Whether you choose to volunteer your time, attend one of our upcoming events, or make a tax-deductible donation, every contribution makes a meaningful impact. Join us in supporting our local heroes and our community today.

Join us in making a real impact in the lives of Chicago Fire Department families. For nearly 20 years, Ignite the Spirit has provided support to over 800 families in need, and with your help, we can continue to make a difference. We understand the importance of giving back to those who sacrifice so much to protect and serve our community. To date, our donors have contributed over 2.0 million dollars to help ease the hardship of these families. With your support, we can ensure that no family is left behind. Join Ignite the Spirit today and be a part of something truly meaningful. None of this would be possible without your generosity.

Order your copy of the 2025 Calendar today for only $10!  Support your Firefighters!

PURCHASE HERE 

Overnight Parking Ban: If you park on a street with this sign above it between 3am and 7am, even if there is no snow on the ground, the City will tow you starting at 3am on Sunday, December 1.

Two-Inch Parking Ban: A separate snow related parking ban exists and can be activated after there are at least two inches of snow on the street, no matter the time of day or the calendar date.

For more information:  CLICK HERE

Help the 18th District CPD collect NEW TOYS for our neighborhood youth, from now through Dec 6th. Also accepting coats, hats, gloves, scarves, socks, and school supplies.  For more information call 312-742-5778 or contact CAPS.018district@chicagopolice.org.

Talk to your Property Manager about hosting a collection in your building!

DROP OFF LOCATION –  18th District Police Station Lobby – 1160 N. Larrabee

Celebrating our Veterans today and always. With respect and gratitude, we honor our veterans with heartfelt thanks.