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Mashriqu’l-Adhkár Number
THE BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
OF THE BAHA’IS OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA
Office of the Secretary
P. O. BOX 139, STATION D, NEW YORK CITYTEMPLE CONSTRUCTION FUND COMPLETED[edit]
Raising of Required Sum of $400,000 Meets Conditions Laid Down by Shoghi Effendi in 1925 for Resumption of Temple Construction. Summary of History of Mashriqu’l-Adhkár Activities in America and Statement of Building Plans Adopted by Trustees. Epochal Event in Worldwide Progress of the Religion of Bahá’u’lláh.
Letter from National Spiritual Assembly
Beloved co-workers of Shoghi Effendi:
In less than ten years after the Ascension of ’Abdu’l-Bahá, His followers in America, united by the Guardian appointed by His Will and Testament, and reinforced by the self-sacrifice of Bahá’is in Europe and the East, have made possible a mighty public demonstration of the universal power of the Religion of Bahá’u’lláh—the beginning of construction of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár on the shore of Lake Michigan in the heart of the American continent.
With the completion of the Temple Construction Fund of $400,000, the conditions laid down by Shoghi Effendi in his cablegram replying to the request for instructions cabled him after the Convention at Green Acre, have been successfully met, and the Trustees can proceed at once with plans for the building of the edifice designed by Mr. Bourgeois.
This vital action likewise corresponds to the prophetic assurances of the Master, that following the construction of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, “a most wonderful and thrilling motion will appear in the world of existence.” Heart-felt gratitude and joyful exultation flows through every heart as the news becomes known throughout the Bahá’i world. A new era begins in the history of the Cause —the period when its inward power and authority shall be outwardly felt, in institutions capable of regenerating the life of the world.
But with this privilege comes a new degree of responsibility for every declared believer. As the Cause grows in public stature, our knowledge of the Teachings, and our methods of collective service, will be tested as never before. Opportunities for teaching will multiply on every hand, but the Cause will also be keenly scrutinized for evidences of any disunity which can be seized upon by enemies seeking to discredit the movement or pervert its sacred aims.
Your National Spiritual Assembly, mindful of the new and different character of the problems that must be solved as the Cause demonstrates its unique power and unfolds its tremendous mission, therefore, urges a deepening of the spirit through fresh study of the Teachings, as they apply to the significance of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, as they apply also to the solution of the general problems of humanity, and finally, as they make the success of the Cause depend upon loyalty to the Guardian and his world-wide administration.
Statement from the Trustees for the Benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada:[edit]
A special responsibility is laid upon those nine believers who, by virtue of their election to the National Spiritual Assembly, serve as the body of Trustees who hold title to the Temple property at Wilmette and are called upon to construct the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.
In this statement of plans, the Trustees feel it advisable to place in the hands of the Bahá’is those documents which represent agreements and contracts made up to the present time, and to summarize the principal steps taken in relation to the Temple since 1909.
The Bahá’is are therefore reminded of the “Ma{shriqu’l-Adhkár Report, 1909-1925” prepared for Bahá’i Temple Unity by Mr. Carl Scheffler, its secretary, presented to the delegates present at the Convention in Green Acre, and shortly afterward published in pamphlet form and distributed to all American believers.
That report, a few excerpts from which are reprinted in this NEWS LETTER, forms the historical background for the Temple activities, and prepared the way for the “Plan of Unified Action,” issued by the National Assembly in December of that same year.
Next to be considered is the new administrative condition brought about by the Guardian’s instructions concerning the election of local and National Spiritual Assemblies, and his statement that the Temple property should be held by the National Assembly in its own name. This led to the adoption by the National Assembly of the Indenture of Trust creating a legal body to which the property was transferred by the Executive Board of Bahá’i Temple Unity.
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of the Bahá’is of the United States and Canada
P.O. BOX 139, STATION D, New York City Address for telegrams Horace Holley, 129 East 10th Street New York City Office of the Treasurer 1821 Lincoln Street Evanston, Ill. “The NEWS LETTER which you have lately initiated fulfills a very vital function and has been started admirably well. I would urge you to enlarge its scope, as much as your resources permit, that in time it may devote a special section to every phase of your activities, administrative, devotional, humanitarian, financial, educational and otherwise. That it may attain its object, it must combine the essential qualities of accuracy, reliability, thoroughness, dignity and wisdom. It should become a great factor in promoting understanding, providing information on Bahá’i activity, both local and foreign, in stimulating interest, in combating and safeguarding the institutions of the Cause. It should be made as representative as possible, should be replete with news, up-to-date in its information, and should arouse the keenest interest among believers and admirers alike in every corner of the globe. I cherish great hopes for its immediate future, and I trust you will devote your special attention to its development, and by devising well–conceived and world-wide measures transform this NEWS LETTER into what I hope will become the foremost Bahá’i Journal of the world.”—— SHOGHI EFFENDI |
These several facts mean that Bahá’i Temple Unity reported fully on its plans and finances up to 1925, after which date the financial and other records have been kept by the National Assembly and the Trustees; and also that the legal and administrative structure sustaining the Temple construction now faithfully reflects the principles laid down by the Guardian of the Cause.
It has already been pointed out in the NEWS LETTER that the Trustees were advised by Shoghi Effendi not to spend any part of the Temple Construction Fund until the full amount of $400,000 had been raised. Thus, although the actual work on the edifice must be preceded by certain preliminary work, involving plans and specifications, selection of building materials, etc., the Trustees have taken only such measures as could be put into effect without cash expenditure.
The necessary preliminary work leading up to the placing of the building contracts is as follows: First, preparation of structural engineering plans and specifications; Second, preparation of architectural specifications; Third, preparation of utility (i.e., light, heat, ventilation, etc.) plans and specifications; Fourth, plans for the grounds and accessory buildings.
The death of Mr. Henry J. Burt removed from service to the Temple the engineer who had carried the structural engineering plans up to a certain point, under a contract made previous to the Guardian’s instruction to the Trustees already mentioned. Mr. Burt’s capacity and his sympathetic understanding of the Temple design have made his death a great loss to the Cause.
Inasmuch as the contract and payments made to Mr. Bourgeois form such an important factor in the Temple plans, the terms of the contract made with him as Temple architect, and also of the contract applying to his use of Temple land for his studio, are both reproduced in this NEWS LETTER.
It should also be made clear in this connection that the Guardian has informed the National Spiritual Assembly that the Bourgeois design is not subject to reconsideration, but that minor detail in his design may be amended if found advisable in the course of planning or construction. Thus, the Temple now to be erected embodies the architectural design chosen by the Convention called upon by ’Abdu’l-Bahá to make the selection, approved by the Master and since endorsed by Shoghi Effendi.
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“When the foundation of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is laid in America, and that divine edifice is completed, a most wonderful and thrilling motion will appear in the world of existence. The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár will become the center around which all these universal Bahá’i activities will be clustered. From that point of light, the spirit of teaching, spreading the cause of God and promoting the teachings of God will permeate to all parts of the world.”—’ABDU’L-BAHÁ. |
The body of Bahá’is who are so anxious to see the Temple arise without further delay appreciate fully the fact that such an undertaking requires expert knowledge and technical experience of the highest order. It is evident that the Trustees must command the best available services, that the Temple may be constructed in the worthiest, most permanent and yet efficient and economical way. Where technical capacity coincides with full faith in the Cause, the best conditions unquestionably exist.
With these facts in mind, the Trustees on March 22, 1930, voted to accept the agreement proposed by the Research Service, Inc., by Washington, D. C., the terms of which are published in this NEWS LETTER. By this agreement, the Trustees and the body of the believers are assured of that expert and experienced counsel needed to safeguard every detail of the Temple construction. As Mr. Allen B. McDaniel is associated with the Research Service, providential good fortune brings to this task one who has received the strongest endorsement in the capacity of the American Bahá’is to bestow—election to membership in the National Spiritual Assembly by the largest number of votes cast in the election.
This statement is necessarily brief and of a preliminary character. By Convention time it will be possible to report in more detail.
Excerpts From Mashriqu’l-Adhkár Report 1909-1925[edit]
Early History
The inception of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár
in the West dates back to the
spring of 1903, twenty-two years ago,
at which time the corner-stone of the
Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in Ishkabad, Russia
had been laid and photographs of
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the event sent to the members of the
House of Spirituality in Chicago, inspiring
that body to arise for the erection
of a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in America.
In response to their supplication,
’Abdu’l-Bahá granted permission for
the undertaking in the following wonderful
Tablet:
“I send you the glad-tidings of the erection of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár (The Bahá’i Temple) in Ishkabad, with all joy and great happiness. The friends of God assembled together with rejoicing and conveyed the stones themselves upon their backs, while attracted by the love of God and for the glory of God. Soon that great Temple will be completed and the voice of prayer and praise shall ascend to the Sublime Kingdom.
“I was rejoiced through your endeavors in this glorious Cause, made with joy and good interest. I pray God to aid you in exalting His Word, and in establishing the Temple of Worship, through His grace and ancient mercy. Verily, ye are the first to arise for this glorious Cause in that vast region. Soon will ye see the spread of this enterprise in the world, and its resounding voice shall go through the ears of the people in all parts.
“Exert your energy in accomplishing what ye have undertaken, so that this glorious Temple may be built, that the beloved of God may assemble therein and that they may pray and offer glory to God for guiding them to His Kingdom.”
Since that time the work has progressed intermittently. During the first six years the members of the Assembly in Chicago strove enthusiastically so that in the spring of 1909 when the first Convention met in Chicago, having been called by the House of Spirituality for the purpose of establishing the work of the Temple on a national basis, the Chicago Assembly was able to report the acquisition of two lots at a cost of $2,000.00, and a cash fund of $3,665.44.
Attached hereto is a financial report, which begins on that date and shows that amount as balance on hand.
Purchase of Site
As before stated the purchase of two lots in the main tract had been completed by the House of Spirituality of Chicago, the deeds for which were in due time turned over to the Bahá’i Temple Unity when it was organized just after the first Convention. The remainder of the main tract bounded by Linden Ave. on the south, Sheridan Road on the north and east, and by the property of the Sanitary District of Illinois on the west was purchased at a cost of $32,500.00. The final payment on this was made on October 1, 1912. The purchase of the lake shore tract was completed February 2, 1914. It cost $17,000.00. There also is a small triangular plot of land across Sheridan Road, north of the main tract included in these purchases.
The main tract measures on its south boundary, Linden Ave. 607.55 ft., on its west boundary, where it adjoins the property of the Sanitary District of Illinois, from Linden Ave. north to a point where the line strikes a slight angle, it measures 257.80 ft.; on the same boundary another angle 135.52 ft., still another angle on this line measures 138.06 ft. The Sheridan Road line also turns slightly several times, the sections of the line beginning at the northwest measuring east and south are 129.92 ft., 219.47 ft., 166.46 ft., and 271.46 ft. The triangular section measures on Sheridan Road 141.49 ft., on the east 131.78 ft., and facing the Canal 141.49 ft. The lake shore tract on Sheridan Road measures 291.40 ft.; 3 ft. at the south end of this line are in dispute, depth at that point is 168 ft., and at the north end it is 183 ft. to the water edge.
The Bourgeois Design
The facts regarding the selection of the model of the Temple by the believers at the 1920 Convention are too well known to require much elucidation; it might nevertheless be well if some points regarding this are mentioned.
’Abdu’l-Bahá directed that the believers should select the design at the 1920 Convention. A number of architects submitted designs, some in the form of drawing plans and Mr. Charles Mason Remey and Mr. Louis Bourgeois submitted plaster models. After careful deliberation and discussion, after hearing the opinion of disinterested men of standing in the architectural profession, the Bourgeois model was chosen. Mr. Remey, who had submitted the other model, made the motion that made the choice unanimous. The selection of the Convention was confirmed by ’Abdu’l-Bahá in numerous Tablets. We quote one of these written by Mrs. Corinne True, as follows:
“Thanks be unto God that this Convention was supported by the confirmations of the Kingdom of Abhá. Praise be unto God that the model of Mashriqu’l-Adhkár made by Mr. Bourgeois was approved by his honor, Mr. Remey and selected by the Convention. The model of Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is, however, too big. It needs several million dollars for the cost of construction. If possible, Mr. Bourgeois may reproduce the same model on a smaller scale, so that one million dollars may suffice for its construction. This should be reconsidered only if possible.”
The Executive Board also felt it necessary to submit the design to ’Abdu’l-Bahá, and since it was obviously impossible to send the model to Haifa they directed Mr. Bourgeois to prepare drawings showing a front elevation and a cross section of the building intending that the architect himself should take these to Haifa and there receive ’Abdu’l-Bahá’s instruction regarding the building. This was done. About the middle of January, 1921, Mr. Bourgeois sailed to the Holy Land. The drawings were left with ’Abdu’l-Bahá and they now hang in the Shrine of ’Abdu’l-Bahá.
It will also be noted that ’Abdu’l-Bahá in the Tablet just quoted directed that if possible the size and cost of the building should be considerably reduced. To comply with this instruction the Executive Board directed Mr. Bourgeois to make experimental drawings to determine whether or not the design would lend itself as it stood to the necessary reduction. It was in the main found to be feasible, the only notable change in the building being in the number of windows on either side of the entrance doors. All of this work was done in the period intervening between the Convention, which was held in April, 1920, and the first of January, 1921. The size of the structure was reduced from 450 ft. in diameter to 153 ft. in diameter, and the estimated cost reduced to about $1,200,000.00. This includes a rough plaster interior, an ornamental iron rail on the balcony, but no decorations for the interior.
A PLAN OF UNIFIED ACTION[edit]
Submitted by the National Spiritual Assembly to the Bahá’is of the United States and Canada
(December, 1925)
“O our God! We beg of Thee by
the King of Names and Maker of
heaven and earth, by the rustling of
the leaves of the Tree of Life and by
Thine utterances, through which the
realities of things are drawn unto us,
to grant that the unity in the love of
God may be speedily established
throughout the world; that Thou wilt
guide us always and unmistakably to
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whatever Thou wouldst have us to do,
and that we may ever be strong and
fully prepared to render instant, exact
and complete obedience.”—BAHÁ’U’LLÁH.
Dear friends in ’Abdu’l-Bahá:
Four years have passed since the Center of the Covenant withdrew into His world of spirit where, as we have been so definitely assured, His unfailing protection, help and inspiration can be extended universally to guide the Cause of God and bless those who sincerely strive to assist its promotion East and West, North and South.
During this time the anxieties of His followers have been allayed, their griefs transmuted into deepened faith, their divisions removed, their doubts been turned into ardent yearning, and their devotion to Him kindled into a flame of selfless prayer for the success of His divine mission to humanity in this great Day of God.
With unbelievable swiftness the beloved Guardian, the Master’s last gift to the world, has established the firm basis of world-wide Bahá’i unity, created the means of consultation, produced the facilities of definite decision, and multiplied our capacity for concerted action.
Now the hour has come when the believers of the United States and Canada are spiritually and materially prepared to undertake in absolute harmony, with joyful determination and with full and reverent appreciation of its importance, a plan capable of revealing to the people of this continent, and to the world, some worthy expression of the spirit breathed into the hearts of the friends of God.
Such a plan has been formulated by the National Spiritual Assembly, deeply conscious of its responsibility both to the Guardian and to each and all of the friends for the success of that signal portion of Bahá’i services committed to the believers in the United States and Canada.
Objects of the Plan
“Know thou, verily, all the doors are closed except the doors of the Kingdom of God! All the trees are without fruit except the tree of life planted in the paradise of God! All the winds are disquieting to the soul except the breeze of God! All the cups are bitter, except the cup of the love of God! Every benefit vanisheth except the food of heaven. It is incumbent upon thee to partake thereof.”—’ABDU’L-BAHÁ.
The objects of the plan are, in brief, to unify the efforts and enlarge the numbers of the Cause in North America,
MASHRIQ’UL-ADHKAR FUND BALANCE SHEET
March 31, 1925
ASSETS
| Current Assets | |||
| Cash in Bank | $ 2,826.31 | ||
| Real Estate and Temple Building | |||
| Land (purchase price) | $ 51,500.00 | ||
| Improvements to Land | 5,706.76 | ||
| Construction | $204,828.46 | ||
| Model | 8,932.50 | ||
| Plans for Temple | 8,728.10 | ||
| Louis Bourgeois—On Contract | 36,700.00 | 259,189.06 | 316,395.82 |
| $319,222.13 |
LIABILITIES
| Current Liabilities | |||
| Notes Payable | |||
| Northern Trust Co. | $ 4,000.00 | ||
| Louis Bourgeois | 3,000.00 | $ 7,000.00 | |
| Excess of Assets over Liabilities | 312,222.13 | ||
| $319,222.13 |
penetrate the consciousness of the public with the spirit of Bahá’u’lláh, and by the end of three years at most, accumulate, in response to the request of Shoghi Effendi, a fund of $400,000.00 to construct the first unit of the superstructure of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár at Wilmette, Illinois.
SHOGHI EFFENDI’S ENDORSEMENT OF PLAN OF A UNIFIED ACTION[edit]
Cablegram to National Assembly, January, 1926
“Congratulate National Assembly on Plan. Noble in conception, sound in method, forceful in its appeal. Fully endorse it. Commend it to every declared believer, joyously pledging ninety-five dollars a month as my humble share. Beseeching Divine assistance.”
Agreement With Mr. Bourgeois As Temple Architect[edit]
This agreement made this 27th day of June in the year One Thousand Nine Hundred and Twenty-five by and between the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’is of the United States and Canada and the Bahá’i Temple Unity, a corporation organized and existing under the Religious Corporation Act of the State of Illinois, party of the first part, and Louis Bourgeois, of Chicago in said State, architect, party of the second part.
- Withesseth, that
Whereas the said Bahá’i Temple Unity has through due and legal action of its corporate annual meeting held at Chicago, Illinois, May 23, 1920, chosen the design of said Bourgeois as the basis for the erection of a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, i.e., the Temple of Worship thereof, at Wilmette, Illinois, on the land owned by said Unity, and
Whereas through the action of the Annual Convention or meeting of said Unity held in Chicago, Illinois, on April 23-27, 1921, due provision was made and authority conferred upon the Executive Board thereof to enter into a contract with said Bourgeois and the substantive elements of such contract were defined and certain acts done and transactions entered into prior thereto by and between said Unity and said Bourgeois were duly ratified and confirmed by said Convention, and
Whereas, by due and appropriate action of the annual meeting of said Unity held at Worcester, Massachusetts, in April, 1924, the Executive Board of said Unity was duly constituted as the National Temple Committee of the National Spiritual Assembly and acting under the appointment and supervision of that body, and
Whereas said Bourgeois has heretofore constructed a Model in plaster of the Temple design at his own expense,
Now, Therefore,
Said National Spiritual Assembly
and the Executive Board of said
Bahá’i Temple Unity, a corporation
aforesaid, and said Louis Bourgeois
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mutually and in unity, seeking the divine
confirmation upon this undertaking,
and in consideration of the sacred
and holy work in which we are commonly
engaged, and the further consideration
of $1.00 and other valuable
considerations paid by each to each,
receipt of which is hereby acknowledged,
do, by these presents, solemnly undertake
and agree as follows:—
- I. Said Party of the First Part to
purchase from said Louis Bourgeois, and said Bourgeois to sell, transfer and convey to said party of the first part, all his right, title and interest in and to the Temple model above mentioned, and to the complete design of said Temple, including all plans and sketches associated therewith and the full photographic or other reproductive rights of said model or design, all for the full and just sum of Sixty-five Hundred ($6,500.) Dollars. Said Bourgeois hereby acknowledges the receipt of said sum of Sixty-five Hundred ($6,500.) Dollars paid by said Unity to him, the said Bourgeois, in full satisfaction of the consideration stated in this paragraph. And said Bourgeois hereby for said consideration received, conveys to said party of the first part all and whatsoever his right, title and interest in said design, plans, sketches, photographs and other rights attached thereto.
- II. Said Bourgeois agrees further
for himself, his heirs, administrators and assigns, that the architectural design embraced in said model, drawings, or architectural conception thereof, substantially as accepted and chosen by the annual meeting of said Bahá’i Temple Unity, held in New York, April, 1920, shall not, in whole or in part, be used or embodied by him, his heirs, administrators or assigns, in any other Mashriqu’l-Adhkár or other structure for religious purposes in which he, his heirs, administrators or assigns, are directly or indirectly interested except with the permission of said party of the first part, its successors and assigns. In the event that said party of the first part or its successors shall in the future desire to use said design and architectural conception in the construction of an additional Mashriqu’l-Adhkár or other religious structure, then and in that event, it is understood and agreed that if such intention is to take effect during the physical and mental life of said Bourgeois, he shall be given the first opportunity to be employed as architect of said structure, and shall be so employed if he desires it, and is physically and mentally qualified to the
TEMPLE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
To March 31, 1925
| Boring | $ 1,905.21 | ||
| Building Permit | 1,200.00 | ||
| H. J. Burt, Engineer | 8,000.00 | ||
| Caisson Contract | 76,350.00 | ||
| Basement Section | 108,500.00 | ||
| Lumber, Building Materials and Labor | 2,339.95 | ||
| Roofing | 2,050.00 | ||
| Painting Ceiling of Basement | 100.00 | ||
| Sewer Work | 475.00 | ||
| Installing Water | 623.60 | ||
| Waterproofing | 416.50 | ||
| Electric Wiring | 261.60 | ||
| Trucking on Grounds | 133.00 | ||
| Three Furnaces | 1,006.20 | ||
| Electric Heater and Misc. Hardware | 74.15 | ||
| Oil Burner Installation | 69.80 | ||
| Skylights | 1,000.00 | ||
| Lumber, Partitions and Boardwalk | 323.45 | ||
| $204,828.46 |
satisfaction of said party of the first part.
- III. Said Bourgeois agrees also to
render complete architectural services necessary for the construction and completion of the Temple, including preparation of all necessary preliminary designs, sketches and working plans, details and specifications, scale details, full size details and all plans of whatsoever nature that are necessary or may be required for the erection of the Temple and its completion, exterior and interior, with power plant therefor, subject to the following exceptions:—
- (a) The plans for the interior of
the building are to include a simple and complete finish, but not necessarily interior decorations of an elaborate or decorative nature.
- (b) Decorative dome-interior ceiling
is not included.
- (c) In the construction of a power
plant, said Bourgeois’ services are limited under this contract to the design of the exterior, together with plans, details and specifications, etc., required in connection therewith; it being understood that all engineering work including mechanical equipment may be made as a separate contract with engineers, at the discretion of the National Spiritual Assembly and under its supervision.
- IV. For his complete services as
saying architect, said Unity agrees to pay said Bourgeois the sum of Fifty Thousand ($50,000) Dollars in American currency, in the manner following:—
- (a) In the year 1920 the sum of
One Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifty ($1,950) Dollars, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged.
- (b) In the year 1921 the sum of
Ten Thousand ($10,000) Dollars, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged.
- (c) It is mutually understood and
agreed that said Bourgeois shall give his full working time to the carrying out of this contract as said architect until all the working drawings, plans and specifications hereinafter in this paragraph referred to have been made, delivered to and accepted by the Executive Board of said Unity. Upon the completion and delivery of a full set of working plans and specifications such as in the usual architectural practice are furnished for the purpose of receiving estimates from contractors for the complete structure, which said plans and specifications shall first be acceptable to and accepted by said Board and by its structural engineer, said Bourgeois shall be entitled to receive on account of this contract the further sum of Fifteen Thousand ($15,000) Dollars, making the total payments, under the architectural features of this contract, up to that time, the amount of Twenty-six Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifty ($26,950) Dollars. And the conditions heretofore expressed in this Section C having been complied with, said Bourgeois hereby acknowledges receipt of payment from the party of the first part of said amount of $26,950, including the amounts set forth in Sections A, B and C of this paragraph. . . . Said party of the first part hereby acknowledges receipt and delivery from said Bourgeois of certain plans and specifications referred to in this paragraph prior to the payment of said sum of Fifteen Thousand ($15,000) Dollars as per certificate of its structural engineer.
- (d) Following the completion and
delivery of said plans and specifications
and the payment of said sum of
Twenty-six Thousand Nine Hundred
and Fifty ($26,950) Dollars, all future
payments on the balance due said
Bourgeois under this contract shall be
made on the following basis:—Said
party of the first part to pay said
Bourgeois two and one-half (2½%)
percent on all work and construction
which has been duly accepted by said
party of the first part and its engineer,
to be estimated on the contract prices
therefor, done after the completion of
the contract for the basement section
under construction by McCarthy
Brothers, Contractors—until the total
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amount paid said Bourgeois, including
the amounts previously acknowledged
as paid in this contract, shall equal
Thirty-seven Thousand Five Hundred
($37,500) Dollars. It is understood
and agreed, however, that a minimum
of Three Thousand ($3,000) Dollars
yearly shall be due and payable to said
Bourgeois from said party of the first
part in any event until the differences
between said sum of Twenty-six Thousand
Nine Hundred and Fifty ($26,950)
Dollars and said sum of Thirty-seven
Thousand Five Hundred ($37,500)
Dollars shall have been paid, and
said Bourgeois hereby acknowledges
receipt of the sum of $9,750.00 as paid
by said party of the first part during
the years 1922, 1923, 1924 and 1925
on account of the Ten Thousand Five
Hundred and Fifty ($10,550) Dollars
due him under this section, representing
the difference between said $26,950
and said $37,500.
- (e) The final balance of Twelve
Thousand Five Hundred ($12,500) Dollars, to complete the Fifty Thousand ($50,000) Dollars total to be paid to said Bourgeois under this contract, shall be paid at the rate of one and one-quarter (1¼%) percent of the sums contracted for and expended by the party of the first part as construction proceeds following the completion of the basement section. The amounts thus becoming due with respect to this final balance shall be payable to said Bourgeois at the time the contractor’s certificate is issued and paid from time to time.
- V. It is further understood and
agreed that the expense of draftsmen incident to the architect’s office necessary at any time during the duration of this contract and up to the amount of Five Thousand ($5,000) Dollars, shall be paid by the party of the first part, also any necessary drafting material to be furnished by the party of the first. Said Bourgeois hereby acknowledges receipt from said party of the first part of said amount of Five Thousand ($5,000) Dollars for draftsmen expenses; and also receipt of any necessary drafting material in compliance with this section of the contract to date.
- VI. It is further understood and
agreed that suitable working quarters for the architect whenever necessary for use by him in his work as an architect, in the carrying on of the construction of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, are to be furnished by the party of the first part.
- VII. It is expressly understood and
agreed that in the case of the death of said Bourgeois, or should he become incapable from any cause from carrying on his work under this contract, the party of the first part shall have the right to terminate this contract, and in such event, to estimate the fair value of the services rendered by said Bourgeois to that date, taking in account the value, as documents of service, of all plans prepared and accepted, and of any other services rendered under this contract not already paid for. Should the decision of said Board be not acceptable to say Bourgeois, his heirs, administrators or assigns, the matter shall be finally arbitrated and determined in the manner hereinafter provided.
- VIII. In the event that any difference
shall arise between the parties in the interpretation of this contract or of any procedure thereunder, and the parties are unable to agree in adjustment thereof, final arbitration shall be had in the manner following:—Each of the parties hereto shall select one arbitrator, which two arbitrators shall endeavor to agree to a just solution of the question before them. It is agreed that on the part of the party of the first part the arbitrator chosen by it may be a member of the said National Spiritual Assembly. In the event that such an agreement shall not he arrived at by the two arbitrators first named, a third arbitrator shall be selected by said arbitral representatives of the said National Spiritual Assembly and said party of the second part mutually, whose decision shall be final. The cost of such arbitration shall be borne equally by the parties hereto.
It is expressly understood and agreed by the parties hereto that this contract shall apply and take effect as of the date of December 10, 1920.
In witness whereof the parties hereto, the party of the first part of the Treasurer and Secretary of the Executive Board of said Bahá’i Temple Unity, thereunto duly authorized, and said Louis Bourgeois, set their hands and seals and to another instrument of like tenor and effect this day and year above written.
For the Bahá’i Temple Unity by (signed) CARL SCHEFFLER, Secretary. For the National Spiritual Assembly
- of the Bahá’is of the United States
- and Canada,
- (signed) FLORENCE MORTON,
- (signed) LOUIS BOURGEOIS
Excerpts From Agreement With Mr. Bourgeois Concerning His Studio on Temple Land[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada and the Bahá’í Temple Unity, a religious corporation, organized under the Religious Corporation Act of Illinois, is hereinafter referred to as the first party and Louis Bourgeois of Cook County, Illinois, is hereinafter referred to as the second party.
The first party and the second party mutually agree together as follows:
The first party, that is, the Bahá’i Temple Unity, has purchased land at Wilmette, Cook County, Illinois, to provide a site for the erection of a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, i. e., Temple of Worship.
The first party also purchased the design and model of said second party as the basis for the erection of its Temple of Worship, and the first party and the second party made an agreement concerning the employment of second party by first party as architect for said structure. This agreement was evidenced by the written contract of the parties, dated June 27, 1925, in which it was agreed among other things:
- “VI. It is further understood and
agreed that suitable working quarters for the architect whenever necessary for use by him in his work as an architect, in the carrying on of the construction of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, are to be furnished by the party of the first part.”
The parties hereto make this writing for the purpose of further evidencing their agreement concerning the studio building heretofore erected by the second party on the land of the first party and further agree respectfully as follows:
- 1. The party of the second part
agrees that he uses said building only
as working and living quarters in his
work as architect according to the
terms of said contract of June 27,
1925 and further that all bills for labor
and materials for the erection of
said building and appurtenances are
paid in full and that no person, firm
or corporation has, to the knowledge
of second party, or claims to have any
lien or claim for lien under the laws
of the State of Illinois, commonly
called the Mechanics’ Lien Law against
said premises for labor and materials
supplied to said studio building or
appurtenances. That he claims no interest
in the real estate hereinbefore described
and no right concerning the
same excepting only so far as this
agreement evidences a privilege to keep
[Page 7]
his studio building thereon for the
period hereinafter mentioned. That he
will not suffer the same to be used for
any unlawful purpose or for any purpose
whatsoever other than as reasonably
necessary working and living
quarters for his work as architect in
carrying on the construction of the
Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. That he will not
sublet said premises to anyone, if at
all, except to well recommended and
respectable people for studio and living
quarters only and will require said
tenants to move if their tenancy interferes
with the tax exemption of said
property, which is now being used for
religious purposes. That said studio
building is now complete. That he will
not make any alterations or repairs
thereon without first obtaining the consent
of the first party and without first
securing to first party waivers and releases
sufficient to release any claim for
lien on account of such repairs or
alterations, and that he will not suffer
any waste of said building or the
premises wherein it is situated.
- 2. And the first party, in consideration
of the premises and for the purpose carrying out its said contract of June 27, 1925, agrees that during the construction of said Temple of Worship, pursuant to the terms of said contract of June 27, 1925, the second party may at his own risk and responsibility, maintain said studio building as hereinbefore provided upon the said real estate without the payment of any further rental than the agreements herein contained.
- 3. And the first party and the second
party further agree together that upon the termination of the employment of the second party as architect for the first party, according to the terms of the contract on June 27, 1925, the first party may, at its option, purchase said studio building for the sum of thirty thousand dollars ($30,000); but if the first party shall fail within the specified time to elect to purchase said building under said option or shall give notice in writing that it has elected not to purchase the same, then in such case said second party, his heirs, executors and assigns agrees to remove said building from said premises within six months from the expiration of the option time, but agrees that in case notice shall be given of the first party’s election not to purchase said building to remove the same in six months from the time of such notice and the first party agrees that the second party may then be allowed to remove such building.
The second party agrees in case of the removal of the building under the terms of this contract that he will remove the same at his own expense, that neither he nor anyone claiming under him shall be entitled to any claim against the first party or against the real estate herein described for the cost of such removal. Further that he will cause the same to be removed in a workmanlike maner and in such fashion that there shall be no injury to the said Temple of Worship or to any other structure upon the premises of said first party or any part thereof and in such fashion that there shall be no claim for damages or compensation by any third party on account of such removal and further that he will leave the grounds where said building is situated in a safe condition without pits or holes or other unsafe places.
Dated this sixth day of April in the year One Thousand Nineteen Hundred and Twenty-six.
In Witness Whereof the parties hereto, the party of the first part by the Treasurer and Secretary of the Executive Board of said Bahá’i Temple Unity, thereunto duly authorized, and said Louis Bourgeois, set their hands and seals and to another instrument of like tenor and effect this day and year above written.
- National Spiritual Assembly
- Bahá’í Temple Unity
- By:—
- FLORENCE R. MORTON,
- Treasurer, N. S. A.
- CARL SCHEFFLER,
- Secretary, B. T. U.
- LOUIS BOURGEOIS
- FLORENCE R. MORTON,
AGREEMENT WITH RESEARCH SERVICE, INC.[edit]
Trustees for the Benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’is of the United States and Canada,
Mr. Horace Holley, Secretary,
125 East 10th Street,
New York City.
Dear Mr. Holley:
After a general conference with you and your associates, it is understood that the Trustees for the Benefit of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’is of the United States and Canada desire to enter into an agreement or understanding with The Research Service, Inc., of Washington, D. C., in order to bring about under the supervision of The Research Service, Inc., prompt and economical construction of that part of the superstructure
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“Now the day has arrived in which the edifice of God, the divine sanctuary, the spiritual temple, shall be erected in America! I entreat God to assist the confirmed believers in accomplishing this great service and with entire zeal to rear this mighty structure which shall be renowned throughout the world. The support of God will be with those believers in that district that they may be successful in their undertaking, for the Cause is great and great; because this is the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in that country and from it the praise of God shall ascend to the Kingdom of Mystery and the tumult of His exaltation and greetings from the whole world shall be heard! “Whosoever arises for the service of this building shall be assisted with a great power from His Supreme Kingdom and upon him spiritual and heavenly blessings shall descend, which shall fill his heart with wonderful consolation and enlighten his eyes by beholding the glorious and eternal God!”—’ABDU’L-BAHÁ. |
of the Bahá’i Temple now under consideration.
- 1. The Trustees have already completed
the foundation for the Temple in the village of Wilmette in the State of Illinois. They have available the sum of four hundred thousand dollars with which to continue building on this foundation. The Trustees, desiring that the work be continued as expeditiously as possible and having confidence in the ability of The Research Service, Inc., are willing to entrust to this Service in the manner hereafter defined, the continuance of construction until the funds available have been expended in whole or in part in carrying out the plans decided upon by the Trustees.
- 2. The Research Service, Inc. offers
to undertake the work of supervision of construction for an amount equivalent to eight percent (8%) of the sums to be paid by the Trustees to contractors, material men and others engaged in the completion of the Temple.
For and in consideration of this
eight percent The Research Service,
Inc. agrees to complete the necessary
structural and engineering plans, to
prepare specifications leading to the
awarding of contracts, to supervise
the construction and see to it that work
[Page 8]
is properly performed in the most economical
and efficient manner, and to act
as the agent of the Trustees in securing
the performance of any unfinished
elements of their contract with the
architect, Louis Bourgeois.
- 3. It is understood that the completed
architectural plans (as distinguished from structural and engineering plans), are to be furnished by the Trustees under their existing agreement with Louis Bourgeois.
- 4. In order to facilitate this work
it is agreed that the Trustees are to place to the credit of The Research Service, Inc., the sum of five thousand dollars, upon acceptance of this contract. This sum is to be drawn upon by The Research Service, Inc. in order to pay draftsmen, inspectors, and structural engineers, also for consulting and advisory services including those of individual experts of The Research Service, Inc. As this sum is drawn upon or depleted, additional deposits are to be made by the Trustees, keeping the total amount available to The Research Service, Inc., at approximately five thousand dollars at the beginning of each month.
The revolving fund thus constituted is to be a charge or debit standing against The Research Service, Inc. On the opposite side of the account the Service is to be credited with such portions of the eight per cent as are earned as shown by payments made to contractors, material men and others during the course of construction. The aggregate of these credits is not to exceed eight per cent of the total expenditure for construction.
- 5. It is understood that all expenditures
for legal advice and aid in preparing contracts, or for other legal services, are to be paid by the Trustees and are not to be a charge against The Research Service, Inc., although the latter will assist in preparing the engineering or physical data for such contracts.
- 6. In order to secure the best bids,
the lowest prices and cash discounts, it is essential that the Trustees do all in their power to assure prospective bidders and others that prompt payment will be made and that there will be no delay in settlement for labor and materials, provision being made for expeditious auditing and immediate payment of just claims.
- 7. The Research Service, Inc. will
prepare monthly or quarterly in advance a concise statement of work proposed and the probable cost so that the Trustees may be advised of the payments to be made each month.
- 8. It is intended that this agreement
shall relieve the Trustees from responsibility for the installation, continuation and completion of the work agreed upon. It is believed that it will be practicable under this agreement to secure considerable savings in ultimate cost. This can come about through special prices or concessions. The Research Service, Inc. enters into the spirit of this undertaking and desires to extend the Trustees full cooperation in the execution of this agreement. Your acceptance of this proposal will constitute a contract.
- Very truly yours,
- F. H. NEWELL.
- Very truly yours,
Temple Contribution From Transjordania[edit]
To the honored members of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada, and the promoters of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.
Bahá’u’lláh says in one of His tablets: “O ye people of the world, ye are the fruit of one tree and the leaves of one branch: Be united and love one another.”
Praise be unto God that these holy words have exerted such an influence that day by day the people of Bahá are exerting increasing effort in cooperating with one another and in promoting unity and understanding between the East and the West. How great is this power for it has aroused the heedless, defeated the enemy and brought about the downfall of the Covenant-breakers. It is now the time for the faithful friends of ’Abdu’l-Bahá to arise for the execution of his words, “Arise with the pure intention to serve the common weal and to sacrifice your personal interest for the good of all mankind.”
Dearly beloved brothers and sisters, how happy you must be to be able to render such a glorious service in connection with the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. You should render praise to Bahá’u’lláh who will surely aid and assist you according to his words: “‘Verily, we behold you from our Abhá Kingdom and will assist whoever arises to proclaim our Cause with the army of the Supreme Concourse!”
On November 27, 1929, the Guardian of the Cause has addressed a circular letter to the friends throughout the East appealing to them to arise and reinforce the efforts exerted by the American believers regarding the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. Our friends in the East will undoubtedly exert the utmost endeavor after the receipt of this letter. He has sent a copy of this letter to the village of ’Adasiyyih.
After the receipt of the circular letter of the Guardian, the inhabitants of the village have each according to his or her ability offered their contribution to this Assembly who in turn have submitted them to the Guardian that it may be forwarded to America. Our hope is that we may also be assisted to render a befitting service in this golden age of the Cause of God.
Wishing you success at the Holy Threshold,
The Spiritual Assembly of ’Adasiyyih. (Signed) RUSTAM AKHTAR KHAVAR,
December 29, 1929.
