Architects, which opposed the destruction of the Columbian ex- 
position relic. Here, he spoke on ‘The Old Field Museum: 
The Greatest Building in the World Architectually.’ 
“That you _are desirous of being informed particularly con- 
cerning the Fine Arts building, I here give some of the exact 
words to you of the illustrious architect and celebrated art ad- 
vocate of Chicago: ‘The Fine Arts building, located at Jackson 
park, is the last remaining memorial to the World’s Columbian 
exposition of 1893. It was one of the most conspicuous struc- 
tures in that galaxy of famous buildings. 
“‘The many art uses to which this building could be advan- 
tageously employed, would materially assist in making of Chi- 
cago the art center of America. 
“‘Tt has been recommended that the entire exterior, includ- 
ing the statuary, be of waterproof cement plaster, and that 
when completed, the structure will appear architectually exact- 
ly the same as during the World’s Fair period. The expert 
estimate for performing this work, inclusive of installing a 
heating plant, plumbing fixtures, and new glass in the roof 
skylights, amounts to $1,640,000. The building as it stands to- 
day in Jackson park occupies an approximate area of four and 
three-quarters acres, and has a probable value of at least $3,000,- 
000. If wrecked there would be no salvage and an additional 
expense for adjusting and leveling the park grounds. 
“‘The $1,640,000 for rehabilitating the structure is not ex- 
travagant, since the building could not be properly erected to- 
day for less than $10,000,000 or $12,000,000. 
“Tt is hoped to preserve this historic structure with the firm 
belief that at some future time it will be replaced in marble 
and bronze as a permanent memorial to Chicago and America's 
greatest art achievement.’” : 
“Now, that you have imparted to me the desired information 
that J have asked you for, oblige me by telling me what time 
it is. 
“Tt is eleven o'clock,” replied I, as I consulted my watch. 
“Well, then, let us finish our philosophical promenade.” 
“All right.. That we are on the second floor, let us visit the 
sla ig gle Hall; it has an excellent collection of gems and 
jewels.’ 
“So be it.” 
We now walk through hall thirty-four until we reach one 
of the superb colonnades, and, as we turn to our fl ht, and 
proceed for hall thirty-one, looking at the opulent wor of the 
inspiring architecture, uttering a few words of praise, exalting 
the massive decorations designed by the architects, Graham, 
Anderson, Probst and White, and, finally, the celebrated Henry 
Hering, a former pupil of Augustus Saint Gaudens. In doing 
47 
