Historical Moments from May 26 in Chicago

Cyrus Bradley’s Tenure as Police Chief

On May 26, 1855, Cyrus Bradley was appointed as the chief of police in Chicago. Bradley served until his passing in 1865. During his leadership, he introduced the department’s motto: “At danger’s call, we’ll promptly fly; and bravely do or bravely die.”

Weather Records for May 26

Chicago has experienced varied weather on May 26 over the years. The highest recorded temperature was 94 degrees in 1911, and the lowest was 34 degrees in 1983. A significant rainfall of 1.78 inches occurred in 1913, while a trace of snowfall was noted in 1907.

Buckingham Fountain’s Construction

By 1927, the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain was completed and dedicated a few months later. Designed by architect Edward Bennet, who also crafted Wacker Drive and the Michigan Avenue Bridge, the fountain is among the largest worldwide. French artist Marcel Loyau designed four seahorses for the fountain, representing the states bordering Lake Michigan.

Kate Buckingham donated the fountain in memory of her brother, Clarence, setting up a $300,000 trust fund to cover maintenance, managed by the Art Institute of Chicago. This fund proved beneficial during a $2.8 million restoration in 1994.

Constructed from Pink Georgia marble, the basin draws inspiration from the Latona Basin in the gardens of Versailles. The fountain’s 134 jets, powered by three pumps, push out over 14,000 gallons of water each minute. Initially, the computer system controlling the fountain’s pumps was in Atlanta but was relocated to a nearby pump house during the 1994 renovation.

For those interested in more historical insights, consider subscribing to the free Vintage Chicago Tribune newsletter, joining the Chicagoland history Facebook group, staying updated with Today in Chicago History, and following on Instagram for further glimpses into Chicago’s past. Suggestions for the Vintage Chicago Tribune can be shared with Kori Rumore and Marianne Mather at their respective emails, [email protected] and [email protected].