Martin Ryerson Tomb

Chicago, Illinois, Martin Ryerson Tomb 2

The Martin Ryerson Tomb is a notable mausoleum located in Graceland Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois. Designed by the renowned architect Louis Sullivan in 1889, the tomb is an exemplary piece of Romanesque Revival architecture.

Design and Architecture

The tomb was commissioned by the family of Martin Ryerson, a prominent Chicago businessman and philanthropist. Louis Sullivan, often referred to as the "father of skyscrapers" and a mentor to Frank Lloyd Wright, was chosen to design the mausoleum. The structure is characterized by its use of heavy stone, rounded arches, and intricate carvings, all hallmarks of the Romanesque Revival style.

Location

The Martin Ryerson Tomb is situated in Graceland Cemetery, a historic cemetery in Chicago. Graceland Cemetery is known for its beautiful landscaping and the graves of many of Chicago's most prominent citizens, including George Pullman, Marshall Field, and Carter Harrison Sr..

Historical Significance

The tomb is not only a resting place for Martin Ryerson but also a significant example of Louis Sullivan's work. Sullivan's design for the tomb reflects his philosophy of "form follows function," with the structure's form being a direct expression of its purpose as a mausoleum. The tomb is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque Revival architecture in the United States.

Preservation

The Martin Ryerson Tomb has been preserved as part of the historical heritage of Graceland Cemetery. Efforts have been made to maintain the tomb's structural integrity and aesthetic beauty, ensuring that it remains a significant architectural landmark in Chicago.

See Also

• Louis Sullivan
• Graceland Cemetery
• Romanesque Revival architecture
• Chicago