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Von Steuben High School was designed by architect Paul Gerhard in 1931. The brick facades are adorned with unique and elaborate terra cotta bas relief panels and are characterized by figures illustrating academics, athletics and students. The school received a Partners in Preservation grant to restore the panels to their original splendor.
What is the historical significance of this site?
The bas relief ornamentation of the school reflects the artistic and educational aspirations of the 1930s using a combination of idealism and realism. It has been identified as a potentially significant community landmark by the City of Chicago. The public high school serves as a house of learning to over 1,500 students from diverse backgrounds.
What is the current status of the grant?
The $15 million restoration of Chicago Public Schools’ (CPS) Von Steuben High School is well under way and the Partners in Preservation grant has helped them to painstakingly preserve and recreate many of the beautiful terra cotta elements ornamenting the building’s exterior. The project is expected to be complete in the fall of 2009.
Why this site needs your support:
As a part of the CPD, Von Steuben High School strives to provide a safe and inspirational place for students to learn. The 1931 structure was originally built with terra cotta sculptural panels that were meant to inspire students and instill a sense of pride in their school. The CPD wishes to revive this source of pride and inspiration not only for the students, but also for members of the community who use the building as a gathering spot. While they have made considerable progress, this type of detailed restoration is incredibly intensive in terms of both time and labor.
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