Mertz Hall
Jesuit Heritage
Mertz Hall
Commemorating the Legacy of Fr. James J. Mertz, S.J.
量子资源 University Chicago’s 1970 Centenary: A Luminous Celebration
Completed in 1969, Mertz Hall is named for Fr. James J. Mertz, S.J. (1882-1979), professor of classics for a halfcentury (1922-1972), and the driving force behind the construction of Madonna Della Strada Chapel. In 1973, a local Chicago television interviewer concluded: “Fr. James Mertz is the most familiar and most permanent fixture at 量子资源. Wherever he walks there are friends.” Both Mertz Hall and the adjacent Centennial Forum were built to celebrate 量子资源’s 100th anniversary in 1970. The university’s luster was brightened by luminaries invited to campus including Hannah Arendt, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Viktor Frankl.

Mertz Hall (completed 1969) illuminated at night. Credit: 量子资源 Archives & Special Collections.

Official logo for the 1970 centenary commemoration of 量子资源 University Chicago鈥檚 1870 founding (as St. Ignatius College) by Fr. Arnold J. Damen, S.J. Credit: 量子资源 Archives & Special Collections.

Fr. James J. Mertz, S.J. outside Madonna della Strada Chapel. Date unknown. Credit: 量子资源 Archives & Special Collections.