Joseph Rosenberg Fountain

The Joseph Rosenberg Fountain is a bronze water feature in Grant Park that sits within a classical Greek temple structure with stone columns, showcasing a bronze statue of Hebe holding a cup and pitcher. The design combines functional architecture with neoclassical artistic elements and occupies a prominent location at the park's southwestern section.

The fountain was funded by Joseph Rosenberg's donation in 1893, motivated by his memory of struggling to find drinking water as a young newspaper seller in Chicago. This early effort to provide public water access became significant infrastructure in a rapidly expanding city during the late 1800s.

The bronze figure shows Hebe, Greek goddess of youth, dressed in flowing robes rather than the original plan that would have shown her unclothed, chosen to reflect community values.

The fountain sits at the corner of South Michigan Avenue and East 11th Street at the park's southwestern edge, easy to locate when exploring the southern section. Its neoclassical style makes it visually distinctive, and the main intersection location helps orient visitors within the larger park area.

The fountain was originally intended as a working water source for newspaper sellers and laborers, but evolved into a historical monument reflecting early urban support systems. Its 2004 restoration by the Chicago Park District brought back its original appearance and significance.

Location: Chicago

GPS coordinates: 41.86869,-87.62381

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:26