James Ward Public School
Chicago Landmark
James Ward Public School
Johnston and Edelmann (1874-75);
Normand S. Patton (1897)
John C. Christensen (1924), architects
1874-75, additions 1897 and 1924
The earliest section (at corner) of James Ward Public School is
Chicago's oldest school building still in use as a school. It was
built in 1875 and designed by noted Chicago architect John
Edelmann, who developed a prototype design to replace schools
destroyed in the Chicago Fire. It is a handsome Italianate-style
building with decorative lintels and cornice and was named for
James Ward, an important early figure in the development of
Chicago's public school system. Later additions were designed
in compatible architectural styles by Chicago Board of Education
architects.
Designated on September 14, 2005
Richard M. Daley, Mayor
Commission on Chicago Landmarks