Who Gave Chicago That Wet Wedding Cake?
Let's talk about the Buckingham Fountain. You know, that ginormous, water-spewing behemoth that makes you feel like a tiny ant when you stand next to it? It's like Chicago's version of a giant, aquatic wedding cake. But, have you ever wondered who the heck decided to plop this watery monstrosity in the middle of Grant Park?
The Fountain Fairy Tale
Well, my friends, it wasn't some water-loving wizard or a mermaid with a penchant for architecture. It was a real, live human being named Kate Sturges Buckingham. Now, before you picture her as a water nymph with a checkbook, let's clear things up. Kate was a wealthy socialite who clearly had a thing for grand gestures.
She decided to honor her brother, Clarence Buckingham, by building him a monument that would make the pyramids look like child's play. And what better way to immortalize your bro than with a fountain that could probably fill Lake Michigan if it really wanted to?
Money Talks, Water Flows
Building a fountain of that size and grandeur doesn't come cheap. You're talking millions of dollars, people! But Kate didn't bat an eye. She shelled out the dough and voila! The Buckingham Fountain was born. It's like she said, "I don't care about the cost, I just want my brother to have the wettest, most extravagant grave marker ever!"
So, the next time you're standing there, getting soaked by the fountain's spray and wondering why anyone would create such a water-happy monster, just remember: it's a monument to brotherly love. Or maybe Kate just really liked water. Either way, we can all agree it's a pretty impressive piece of work.
How to Buckingham Fountain
How to appreciate the Buckingham Fountain: Stand in awe, get soaked, and maybe grab some popcorn.How to avoid getting soaked: Bring an umbrella or wear a raincoat. Or just watch it from afar.How to feel small: Stand next to the fountain. Trust me, it works.How to imagine you're in Versailles: Close your eyes and pretend you're Marie Antoinette.How to plan a visit: Check the fountain's schedule. It's usually on from April to October.
