The Bahá’í Centenary 1844-1944/History of Temple Construction
 | The text below this notice was generated by a computer, it still needs to be checked for errors and corrected. If you would like to help, view the original document by clicking the PDF scans along the right side of the page. Click the edit button at the top of this page (notepad and pencil icon) or press Alt+Shift+E to begin making changes. When you are done press "Save changes" at the bottom of the page. |
HISTORY OF TEMP 1903
HAVING heard enthusiastic reports of the building of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in ‘lshqabzid, Russia, the members of the Spiritual committee (better known as the "House of Spirituality") of the Chicago Assembly were inspired to supplicate to the Center of the Covenant, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to grant permission for the second Mashriqu’l-Adhkár to be built in_America.
On June 7, 190}. a tablet was revealed in ‘Akki by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá saying, "Now the day has arrived in which the edifice of God, the divine sanctuary, the Spiritual temple, shall be erected in America."
The following words from the pen of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá clearly indicate the erection of a material building: “The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, though outwardly a material foundation, is possessed of spiritual effect and causes the union of hearts and the gathering of souls. . . . Praise be to God! The erection of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár has a great effect in all grades (or states). It was tested in the east and so evidently and plainly was it proved good (that) even when in a village a house was called the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, it possessed a different effect. How much more its building and organization." Furthermore, He says, "The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is the most important matter and the greatest divine institute. Consider how the first institute of His holiness Moses, after His exodus from Egypt was the ‘Tent of Martyrdom’ which He raised and which was the traveling temple. It was a tent which they pitched in the desert wherever they abode. and worshipped in it. Likewise, after His holiness Christ May the spirit of the world be a sacrifice to Him—tbc first institute by the disciples was a temple. They planned a church in every country. Consider the Gospel, and the importance of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár will become evident. I hope that all the beloved of God, collectively, on the con LE CONSTRUCTION -1915
tinent of America, men and women, will strive night and day until the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is erected in the utmost solidity and beauty."
And again: "Today, the establishment of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is of paramount importance, but hereafter it shall not be so. This is the beginning of organization; it is like unto the first church founded in Christianity: it is an expression of the elevation of the Word of God."
While in London, on his first European trip, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá told Mr. Charles Mason Remey that its building is the most important of all things. This is the spiritual foundation, for that reason it is the most important of all foundations; from that spiritual foundation will come forth all manner of advancement and progress in the world of humanity. Therefore. how great is its importance.
To Mrs. Helen S. Goodall and Mrs. Ella G. Cooper, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said: To have it built is most important. Some material things have spiritual effect, and the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is a material thing that will have great effect upon the spirits of the people. Not only does the building of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár have an effect upon those who build it, but upon the whole world. In the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, services will be held every morning and the words of Bahá’u’lláh only are to be read.
While in Rarnleh, Egypt, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá assured Mr. Percy Woodcock that the most important thing in this day is the speedy erection of the edifice. Its mystery is great and cannot be unveiled as yet. In the future it will be made plain.
During the sojourn of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Haney in the prison home of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, He said: When the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, with its accessories, is established in the world, aside from its religious. or spiritual influence, it will have a tre 122
HISTORY OF TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION
mendous effect upon civilization. Aside from the religionists, who will feel its influence, materialists will not be exempt therefrom. Moreover, it contains divine wisdom, spiritual effects upon the intellects and thoughts. Subsequent to its erection these will become evident.
This important point was made clear to a pilgrim visiting Him, namely, that the organization of worshipping places is not simply for drawing near to God, but it is to concentrate the word of the spirit of God and cause the power of unity and oneness among the people.
Regarding the locating of this edifice of God, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote to the friends of New York City: "Concerning the erection of the temple; now all the believers must become united, so that the temple may be built soon in one place. For should the believers undertake (the erection of the temple), in many places, it will not become completed anywhere; and as in Chicago they have preceded every other place to plan the erection of the temple, undoubtedly to cooperate and help them is nobler and a necessity. Then when it is built in one place it will become erected in many other places, God willing, in all the states of America, in the future, there will be erected temples, with infinite architectural beauty and art, with pleasing proportions and handsome and attractive appearances, especially in New York."
Also to Dr. Edward Getsinger, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote: “Regarding the building of the temple in Chicago, both of you (Dr. and Mrs. Getsinger) display the utmost effort in encouraging and inspiring the believers and the maid-servants of God, so that they may assist in the matter with generosity, and thus soon this temple will be erected. This matter is of great importance." ("Utmost importance” in ‘Abdu'l-Bahi's own handwriting).
When Eshte'al~Ebn Kalanter wrote regarding a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár on Monsalvat (Green Acre, Eliot. Maine), ‘Abdu’l-Bahá replied: "Concerning the building of a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár on Mons.-ilvat: It is certain that before long this shall be built; and this is an ordained (or fixed) matter; but in Chicago it is two or three years since
12}
a number of people are making efforts. Now while the building of this temple is not yet started or engaged in, if there be the founding of a second temple undertaken, neither of the two would be accomplished and this failure would weaken the Cause."
Mr. Mountfort Mills received a tablet from ‘Abdu'l—Bah:i saying: "The Mashriqu’l-Ad_hk5r of Chicago is of the greatest importance. This Bahá’í temple is a supreme House of Worship, a place of spiritual gathering and of the manifestation of divine mysteries. The friends of God must endeavor with all their hearts and souls that this structure may be raised and completed.”
The Center of the Covenant has written: "One must first grasp those affairs which will make growth (in the Cause) and also be in time and season.”
From the foregoing quotations it is manifest that the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is founded on the "Rock of Ages." the eternal Word of God, as to its object, location and appropriate time for its erection.
A brief sketch of the work accomplished may prove interesting:
In the spring of 1907, while Messrs. Chase, Agnew and Schefller were in the prison home of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, He said to them: Concerning the temple, the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár is a very important matter, the most important thing now in America is the building of the temple. You and your friends must endeavor in this matter. This building will be the cause of the confirmation of the believers. It has a great effect because it is the beginning of the foundation. After centuries it is not so important as it is now, but now it is very important. At first they build the temple and worship in it and grow. In past times they could not build it so outwardly. This building will be the cause of unity and prosperity of the Cause. The unity comes; from every part the believers will assist. This is a heavenly society and also it will be the cause of strength. The believers will get blessings and bounties. It cannot be compared with the church of the old time. You have only to begin, everything will be all right.
When this message was brought back to
124 THE BA!-IA‘!
America a new activity in the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár resulted throughout the country and contributions from various assemblies and individuals were received. A convention was called for November 26, 1907, to be held in Chicago. This was the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár convention. regarding which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote to Mr. Charles Sprague: “Thou hast written concerning the organization of a council for the building of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. This news brought much spirit and fragrance, for the nine delegates sent by the various assemblies gathered in that meeting and consulted concerning the building of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.”
Several possible tracts of land on both the south and north sides of the city had been investigated, as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had said to a pilgrim that it must be near the lake. The morning of the day of November 26, 1907, the delegates visited the south side tract, noting carefully the surroundings, returning to the home of Mrs. Grace Foster for a sumptuous (Thanksgiving day) feast, prepared in the name of the Center of the Covenant by the Chicago maid-servants. In the afternoon the delegates inspected a tract north of the city. That evening a spirited meeting was held over the location and it was unanimously voted that the north shore tract was most desirable. Miss Gertrude Builtema tools the minutes of this meeting. Upon closer investigation the north shore tract (now the site of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár) was found to consist of fourteen lots. The spiritual meeting of the Chicago Assembly, after bringing the matter before the assembly for approval, took title to two of the lots in the name of the treasurer of the assembly, Mr. Carl Schefler, and arose to obey the Center of the Covenant when He said: You have only to begin, everything will be all right. The sum of $2,000 was paid for those two lots on April 9, 1908.
On June 19, 1908, a tablet was revealed by 'Abdu'l-Bahzi and translated by His daughter Moneveh Khánum, in which He wrote, "Ask every spiritual meeting in the other cities that they will each select one and send him, and from these selected ones and with those who are selected from the
CENTENARY
Chicago meetings, establish a new meeting for the provision of the means of the temple. If this is established with perfect fragrance and joy, it will produce great results. In this new meeting, especially for the establishment of the temple, women are also to be members."
In compliance with these instructions from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. the House of Spirituality of the Chicago Assembly called the second Mashriqu’l-Adhkár convention for March 22nd and 23rd, 1909, the proceedings of which were accurately recorded by Miss Gertrude Buikema and Mr. Charles Ioas, duly elected to act as secretaries. and afterwards printed. Thus the tiny mustard seed of nine delegates grew in the two intervening years to four times nine. The Bahá’í Temple Unity resulted, as an organization, with full power and authority to provide ways and means for the erection of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. A constitution was presented and adopted and the first executive board of Bahá’í Temple Unity was elected and authorized by the convention to close and complete the purchase of the land, recommended by the first convention, 1907, of which two lots had been bought and paid for, with an option secured on the remaining twelve lots. Immediately after the close of the convention the newly appointed executive board went into session, selecting its officers in accordance with the constitution. The treasurer of the Chicago Assembly, Mr. Schefiler, in whose name the title to the two lots was held, turned over to the Bahá’í Temple Unity all official documents and all monies held by him for the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, as follows:
Monies on hand .................... ..$3,666.44 Land values 2,000.00 Total ,..............$5,666.-H
When the two lots had been purchased. Mr. C. E. Brush, one of Chicago’: architects, kindly made a plat of the tract and its surroundings, which was sent to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. A beautiful tablet flowed from His pen, "To the friends and maid-servants," saying that on the anniversary of the
declaration of His holiness the Supreme, the
Bab. the map of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár
HISTORY OF TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION
had been presented, that "great joy was obtained thereby and with the greatest care it was considered," that “it is indeed a delightful spot worthy of this edifice and building." (Date of this tablet July 4, 1903).
The members of the Executive Board of Bahá’í Temple Unity appointed Messrs. Mills, Hall and Jacobscn, a committee to attend to the land negotiations, and an offer of $32,500 for the remaining twelve lots was made and accepted with a contract providing for the payment of $3,000 every six months. with interest. commencing July I, 1909. A religious corporation was effected under the laws of Illinois in the name "Bahá’í Temple Unity” and the title to the land secured.
The third Mashriqu’l-Adhkár convention convened in Chicago, April 25 and 26, 1910. Report of the work done during the year was given by the secretary. Mr. Jacobsen, and the financial secretary's report showed contributions for the fiscal year:
From the Orient...-......_.._....$ 7,092.83
From America and Europe.. 7,638.66 Turned over by Mr. Schefiler 5,666.44 Total .................................. _.$20,397.9$
($2,000 of this being land)
Contributions had come from India, Persia, Turkey, Syria. Palestine, Russia, Egypt. Germany, France, England. Canada, Mexico. Hawaiian Islands, and a little island far out in the lndian Ocean, Mauretius. Besides from sixty different.Amt-rican cities. The words of the Center of the Covenant had literally been fulfilled: You have only to begin—£vcrything will be all right.
The fourth Mashriqu’l-Adhkár convention was held in Chicago, May I and 2, 1911. A command having come from ‘Akká to hold the convention during the Riḍván days. During the fiscal year. April 23, 1910, to April 29, 191]. the total contributions were:
The Orient and Europe........$ 1,190.83 America 9,210.76
Total .. .. .. .. ............$10,40l.S9
The fifth convention in Chicago. April
125
29th to May 1, 1912, will eternally wear the glorious crown of bestowal because of the presence of the Center of the Covenant and His dedication of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár grounds, May 1, 1912. During this fiscal year the lake shore tract of 293 feet frontage had been contracted for and payment made on it, the purchase price being $17,000. The contributions for the year having been $7,292.45.
The sixth convention was entertained by the friends of New York City, April 28 and 29, 1913. Regarding this wonderful convention ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote to Mr. Wilhelm. saying:
"Praise be to God, that the New York believers became confirmed in the accomplishment of a great service and held in that city the consultation convention for the erection of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár. They displayed the utmost of effort until that convention was inaugurated with infinite perfection. They exercised the greatest love and kindness towards all the delegates who had come from the different states. They united and entertained the delegates in their homes. With perfect affection they spread before them the banquet of hospitality. Every one became grateful and happy. This event will adorn an important and blessed page in the Bahá’í history."
At this convention the commemoration of the ninth day of every month as Mashriqu’l-Adhkár day was proposed and afterward confirmed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and has proved a very great impetus to the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár work. The friends of other countries join with us in observing the day; very beautiful are the letters from our four American sisters in Teheran telling of their holding this ninth day with us.
The first contribution for the fiscal year April 30. 1912 to April 19. 1913, was a gift from the Center of the Covenant at the closing session of the previous convention in Chicago. Also this year marked the completion of the payment on the site dedicatcd by ‘Abdu'l-Bahi and an indebtedness of $9,000 on the Lake Shore tract remained
-only. its entire liquidation being urged be fore the expiration of 1913. The contributions for the year having been $14,206.42. Another year soon rolled around and
126 T H E B A H A ' I Chicago was again blest with a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár convention. which was the seventh convention. It also marked the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Bahá’u’lláh.
At the close of the year 1913 the money came literally rolling in for the cancellation of all land debts and a cablcgram was sent to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá announcing that the Bahá’í Temple Unity had completed its land obligations. Thus the new year, 1914, dawned free of any clouds for the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár work so that the building fund might be started. The financial secretary reported contributions for the year $1},503.79 and the Unity entirely out of debt with land holdings for which $51,500 had been paid and which was worth almost double the price paid. Complete unity and harmony marked the sessions of this seventh convention.
And now the eighth Mashriqu’l-Adhkár convention and first Bahá’í congress has convened in San Francisco. Thus our conventions held in the United States of America have travelled from coast to coast.
Almost immediately after the second eonvention, when the Bahá’í Temple Unity resulted. the president of the firs: Executive Board, Mr. Mountfort Mills, of New York City, visited the Center of the Covenant who was still a prisoner of the Turkish Government, though liberated in July of that same year, 1908. Mr. Mills wrote: "At the temple convention, He seemed most pleased and satisfied and assured us that the future would see many more, constantly increasing in numbers, attending and bringing together representatives from all parts of the world. He said that these gatherings would be to the spiritual body of the world what the inrush of the spirit is to the physical body of man, quickening it to its utmost parts and infusing a new light and power.”
One of the most touching gifts to the building fund was a check for $1,000 addressed to "The Bahá’í Temple of Peace” and saying in the letter. "In Europe, fathers and brothers l1.1\'c been torn from their wives and little children, and many left at home are in want of dire necessities. Our beloved ones are not facing mutilation, acute suffering and death. I send this as a thanks CENTENARY
giving offering, though it seems minute indeed to express what I feel."
During the fiscal year beginning April 27, 1914, the monthly contributions have been as follows:
April 27 to May I ................ ..$ 258.00 May ...................................... .. 388.60 June 351.09 July ...................................... .. 483.31 August ................................ .. 344.22 September ............................ .. 1,533.88 October .............................. . . 557.99 November ............................ .. 519.50 December ............................ .. 614.66 January ................................ .. 768.72 February 247.10 March 278.76 April 1 to April 13 .............. .. 251.82
Total to April 18, 1915 ...... ..$6,597.65
Total receipts of subscriptions from August, 1907, to April. 1915. First Convention 5,666.44 Second Convention ............ .. 14,731.51 Third Convention .............. .. 10,401.59 Fourth Convention ............ ._ 7,292.45 Fifth Convention . 14,206.42 Sixth Convention 13,503.79 Seventh Convention .......... .. 6,597.65 Grand Total .....-_._...........,,,.$72,399.85
Of the above amount $11,159.75 was from countries other than United States, as follows:
England: St. Ives. Cornwall; Springfield, Broadway; Manchester; London; Sussex, Brighton; Warwicke; Clifton, Bristol.
Ireland: Warrmgton, County Down.
France: Paris; Dinan, Brittany.
Germany: Berlin; Stuttgart; Esslingen; Zufienhausen.
Italy: Sienna: Ravenna, Erba.
European Turkey: Constantinople.
Palestine: ‘Akita; Haifa.
Russia: Baku; Ishqábád.
Persia: Tihran; Esphahan; Gangclie: Shíráz; Yahromi; Resht; Kermanshah: Sanstan: Meshed; Tiflis; Yazd; Arabelli.
India: Rangoon; Bombay; Mandalay.
Egypt: Cairo; Port Said; Alexandria.
HISTORY OF TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION 127 South Africa: East Rand; Transvaal; Islands of the Sea: Isle of Pines; Isle of
Capetown. Maurctius; Hawaiian Islands. New Zcaland: Davenport; Auckland. Respectfully submitted, Brazil: Sao Paulo. CORINNE TRUE, Canada: Montreal; Brockville; St. John’s, Financial Secretary, N. B. Ba/Ja"t' Temple Unity.
The seal of the firs: Bahá’í Assembly of the United sums and Canada, 1897.
HISTORY OF TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION
1915
AT the Convention called by the Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly to discuss ways and means for raising funds necessary for the construction of the first story of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, which was held in Chicago, October 19-20, 1924, the Temple Committee was instructed to draft a complete report on the status of the Temple work to be submitted to the National Spiritual Assembly for approval and to be sent to the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada.
It is the purpose of this report to deal specifically only with matters that have transpired since the selection of the design of the building, but in order to refresh the memories of the friends regarding the wonderful accomplishments of the previous years, we are presenting a brief resume of the various early stages of the work.
EARLY Hxsroar
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 ‘lsjqibad, Russia had been laid and photographs of 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’í Temple) in ‘Isliqibéd, 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.
-1925
"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 religion. Soon will ye see the spread of this enterprise in t'he 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 worh 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 $3,666.44.
Puncnasn or Srra
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’í 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
12!
HISTORY OF TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION
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 Aye., 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 27l.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 X8} 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 drawn 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 to 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,
129
Mr. Remey, and selected by the Convention. The model of Mashriqu’l-Aifliltar 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 design of the Bourgeois model being a new and unique conception does in its main character depart somewhat from recognized architectural standards, chiefly in the manner in which the upper stories connect with the lower part of the building. it is usual for the main ribs of a structure to ascend directly from the ground. In this design the main ribs of the upper stories and dome were shifted so that they connected midway between the main or first story buttresses, immediately above the doorways. This caused considerable adverse criticism from laymen and architects. so that the Executive Board of Bahá’í Temple Unity ordered Mr. Bourgeois to prepare a set of drawings altering this particular feature. This work was in the nature of an experiment to assure the members of the Board in whose hands the responsibility tested, that the Bahá’ís were not making a mistake in building a structure that thus radically departed from recognized architectural standards. The result of the experiment justified Mr. Bourgeois, for it was found that the life and beauty of the original model was not in the building shown in the experimental drawing. "It became a rigid structure and lacked motion." (Bourgeois) .
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 instructions 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
130 THE BAHA’I
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 detemiine 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 133 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.
ENctNEt«:n’s R1-:1>on'r
In
"My contact with the Bahá’í Temple project in 'Wilmette started in the fall of 1920. I met some members of the Board at that time in connection with the discussion of some municipal plans of the Village of Wilmette in their relation to the Temple project. I also conferred with Mr. McDaniel regarding the foundation plan. which he was preparing at that time, and gave some assistance to the Board in securing bids and letting the contract for the caisson foundations which supported the central portion of the building. This contract was let to Mr. Avery Brundage on the 17th day of December. 1920.
"On January 5, 1921, I entered into a contract with the Bahá’í Temple Unity to serve as its structural engineer and superintendent of construction. By this contract I undertook to prepare the structural, mechanical, electrical and sanitary engineering plans and specifications and to supervise the entire construction. This contract is still in effect. It was stipulated in the contract that I was authorized to proceed with the preparations of the plans for the foundations and basement structure and that I should not prepare any plans of the superstructure until furthcr authorized.
"It was further contemplated that it
CENTENARY
would not be necessary for me to make plans of the caisson foundations so that on this item my compensation would be for supervision only. However, a modification of this arrangement was made soon after because it became necessary to make certain structural plans of the superstructure in order to get a building permit and in doing this work it proved necessary to revise the caisson foundation designs which had been made previously.
“Only so much additional work was done as was necessary to serve the two purposes cited.
"As stated above. a contract was let to Avery Brundagc on December 17, 1920, for nine caisson foundations under the central portion of the building with the intention of proceeding immediately with this portion of the work.
"An informal application was made to the Village of Wilmette for a permit on December 21, 1920. No action was taken but on the contrary, some opposition developed and it was necessary to file a formal application for permit, which was done on January 7, 1921. Permit was refused at this time because plans of the building structure were not submitted as required by ordinance. This situation made it necessary to proceed with preparation of general structural plans sufficient to comply with the ordinances of the Village.
"These plans were drawn as rapidly as possible and were filed with a formal application on March 4, 1921, and the building permit was issued on the 19th day of Match. This permit covered not only the work then under contract but the construction of the entire building. Under the ordinances of the Village this permit would probably be considered as still in effect, although the Village authorities could require the taking out of a new permit on account of the long suspension of operations.
"Two contracts of considerable amount have been carried out from my plans and under my supervision, namely. with Avery Brundage for nine caissons, amounting to $76,350.00. and with McCarty Brothers for the general basement section, amounting to $108,S 00.00. In addition to these, there have been several miscellaneous items which
HISTORY OF TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION
are shown on your records and which, with the above aggregate a total of $187,876.35. Payments made to me amount to $8,000.00, which includu payments to apply on account of the extra work of preparing plans for permit and for caissons.
"The Brundage contract for caissons was completed early in the summer of 1921, having been quite seriously delayed because of the large amount of water encountered in digging the wells for these foundations. These wells were approximately 120 ft. deep and extended about 90 ft. below the level of the water in the lake and the drainage canal near by.
“Soon after the completion of the caisson contract, plans were submitted to contractors for the basement structure. This covered the foundations other than nine caissons, which were required for the outer portions of the building and the complete enclosure of the basement structure up to and including the first floor. It did not include the basement floor, the subdivision of basement space, the finishing of basement nor the installation of any of the mechanical appliances.
"A contract was made with McCarty Brothers of Chicago for this work on August 24, 1921. The starting of the work was somewhat delayed by the time required to get the necessary signatures to the contract. Also the work occupied considerable more time than was anticipated but was finally completed in the fall of 1922.
"Since the completion of the basement contract, no work of importance has been done on the structure. As it now stands, the structure comprises the entire basement enclosure, which consists of the main enclosing wall of concrete, about 200 ft. in diameter and 20 ft. high; the sloping concrete deck, which is to support the steps encircling the main structure; and the reinforced concrete deck which will be the first floor of the main structure. Within
this enclosure are all of the supporting columns required for superstructure and beneath it are all of the foundations required for the entire structure.
"Some work has been done to make the interior of the basement partially usable, such as the installation of water, temporary
131
lights, sewer connection, furnaces, floor in the central portion and other miscellaneous items. Some of this has been under my supervision.
"Some filling material has been obtained from other operations in the neighborhood without expense, but so far it amounts to only a small fraction of the total filling that is required.
"The structure in its present condition is rather unsightly and has recently been the subject of some adverse comment. This is probably a continuance of the opposition which was in evidence when the work was started. The structure has necessarily deteriorated somewhat on account of exposure in its unfinished state, but this has not developed to a serious extent and can be overcome when the general work proceeds, or sooner if need be.
"The Board authorized Mr. Bourgeois. Architect of the Bahá’í Temple to proceed with his plans in 1921. He did so and carried them to completion in 1922 to such extent as they could be completed without having the structural plans to coordinate with the architectural plans. Inasmuch as I was not authorized to proceed with the structural plans, I did only such work on them as was absolutely necessary to permit carrying on the architectural plans. This consisted principally in determining some of the governing dimensions and in some instances the relation of the structural members to the architectural members. The plans which were made for permit purposes were very useful for the architect in this connection.
"The architectural plans show all of the exterior treatment of the building and in large measure the interior arrangement. There are some details that could not be completed on account of the absence of the structural plans. as mentioned, and also because the exterior material had not yet been determined.
"No specifications have been written.
"The architectural plans are in such condition that the essentials are all given so that the work could be carried on by some other competent architect in case Mr. Bourgeois should be incapacitated.
"At the request of the Board I examined
Delegates to the first convention of the Bahá’ís of America, March, 1909.
EH
AHVNHLNHD LYHVSI EII-LI.
Y
msroav or TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION
the architectural plans and reported substantially as above.
"Before work can proceed with the superstructure, it will be necessary first to make the structural plans for it. The plans which were made for permit purposes, having been developed from only preliminary architectural drawings. will not be serviceable. They will have to be done over and completcd in very much greater detail. Then it will be necessary for a number of additional drawings to be prepared in connection with the architectural work in order to correlate the architectural, structural and mechanical elements. Also some additional work may be necessary on the architectural drawings, dependent upon the selection of exterior material. This will not affect the design of ornamentation but will affect the jointing of the masonry materials. When these outstanding questions are settled, the specifications can be written. A large part of the specification work will fall to my lot but some of it will be architectural.
"Early in 1921, the Board appointed a materials committee, consisting of Mr. W. S. Maxwell, Mr. E. R. Boyle, Mr. A. B. McDaniel, Mr. Louis Bourgeois and Mr. H. J. Burt, Chairman, toistudy the questions of materials to be used in the construction of the Temple. having particular reference to the exterior material.
"A preliminary report was made on April 22, 1921. and a final report on February 18, 1922. These reports are on file with the board. Mr. Bourgeois and myself visited St. Louis and Nashville and I- visited Washington and New York, as well as a number of points at and near Chicago. gathering information regarding materials. Some samples of terra cotta and artificial stone have been exposed to the weather at the Temple site since 1922.
"There are a number of miscellaneous items in connection with the work that are worth recording:
"About the time construction was started, the Village of Wilmette was contemplating .1 change in the location of Sheridan Road in order to partially eliminate the dangerous curve along side of the Temple property.
A shifting of the Road approximately 30 ft. westward at the maximum point was sub 13)
stantially agreed upon by all parties at interest but was not put into effect. The Temple building was located, however, to provide for the possible contingency of this change being made at some future date, so that when made, it would not detract from the general plan of the Temple grounds.
"It was desired that the most used entrance to the Temple should be toward ‘Akita. In order to establish this accurately. astronomical observations were made to establish the true meridian through the center of the Temple and from this the correct position of this entrance established.
"The original model of the Temple was exhibited by special permission in the Art Institute of Chicago from March 8 to April 5. 1921. and by shifting its location the exhibition period was extended from April I to May 2.
"A common field stone to mark the location of the Temple building was planted at the site by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the time of His visit to Chicago in 1912. The location of the stone has been carefully preserved so that a suitable marker can be placed at the spot in the completed structure.
"It should be borne in mind that a considerable amount of work is required to prepare plans for proceeding with the construction and that I am not at this time authorized to proceed with this work so ample notice should be given.
"I think I need say nothing regarding the desirability of proceeding with the work as soon as arrangements can be made for so doing, for I know that all connected with it, as well as the residents of the North Shore district. are anxious to see this magnificent structure carried forward to completion."
Ancnmacfs STATEMENT
"Regarding the work done on the plans for the Temple. I would say that I have drawn a full set of plans as follows: Floor plans, basement and gallery sections; a full set of detail drawings three-quarters inch (3[.") scale for one-ninth (1/9) part. first, second, third story and dome. Also all section and profile for one-ninth (1/9) part of the Temple from floor to top of dome. full size. Comprising altogether about
134 THE BAHA'l
thirty-six (36) rolls of drawings that vary in size from ten feet (10’) long to one hundred and nine feet (109').
"For instance, one twenty-seventh (1/27) section of the dome is drawn on two rolls of paper four feet six inches (-6'6”) in width by forty-five (45’) feet in length. All of this work, because of the unusual size, had to be laid out and drawn on the floor. It required a space two hundred and fifty (250’) feet long by forty (40') feet wide.
"The full size drawings of the outer structure of this building were required because all of the design and tracery on this structure are entirely new. From these drawings the modellers under my supervision will have
CENTENARY
to make the original moulds from which the various sections of the building are cast.
"This required considerably more drawing and of exceptional difficulty because of the large size that is done on even highly ornamented buildings where more or less stock ornamentation is used.
“The Mashriqu’l-Adiildr will require much more supervision than any other building of even greater size or cost because the character of the ornamentation is entirely new and the modellers will have to be instructed constantly. The drawings clearly show full size detail of the design, but the depth and pitch of the modelling will have to be determined by me as construction proceeds.”
ESTIMATED COST TO COMPLETE STRUCTURE
The original estimates given for the entire structure were as follows:
Caisson .......................................................................................................... ..$ 50,000.00 Basement ........................................... .. 175,000.00 First Story ............................................ ..................................................... .. 375,000.00 Second Story ................................................................................................ .- 27$,ooo.oo To top of 325,000.00 $1,200,000.00 Actually expended on Caisson ..................................................................... ..$ 76,350.00 Actually expended on Basement .................................................................... .. 108,500.00 EXPENDITURES APRIL 1, 1909—MARCH 31, 1925 Real Estate and Temple Building Land (purchase price) ................................................................................ .,$ 51,500.00 Improvements to land .................................................................................. .. 5,706.76 Temple Building: Construction ........................................................................ ..s2o4,s2s.4s Model .................................................................................... .. 8,932.50 Plans for Temple .................................................................. .. 8,728.10 Louis Bourgeois—On Contract ............................................ .. 36,700.00 259,189.06
MYRON H. POTTER Chairman CoiuNN1-: TRUE Financial Secretary A. F. MATTHISEN Accountant Au-1u=.o E. LUNT ALBERT Wmnusr
S 316,395.82
Respectfully submitted,
Bahá’í Temple Committee, CARL SCHEFFLER, Secretary.
