ELMER JENSEN
1870-1955
Elmer Jensen was hired by William Le Baron Jenney in 1884 at the age of 14 as an office boy. Upon Jenney’s retirement in 1905, William Bryce Mundie selected Jensen to be his partner. The firm operated under the name of Mundie & Jensen from 1907-1936. During this time, many commercial buildings were designed including the Consumers Building (1913-present), the LeMoyne Building (1915-present) and Singer on State (1926-present). In addition, Mundie & Jensen were also active in the burgeoning Motor Row District designing showrooms for Packard, Rambler, Locomobile and Pierce Arrow.
Following Mundie’s passing in 1939 and the hiring of Edward Halstead, the firm name became Jensen & Halstead as it is today. Jensen’s legacy is in his longevity and commitment to the success of the firm. He has been called the “dean of Chicago architects” and a “gentleman of the old school”. Jensen’s 71 year career is well documented in the excellent work he did as well as his dedication to outside interests. He served as president of the Illinois Society of Architects for five years, president of the Chicago chapter of the AIA, was a member of Cliff Dwellers and Union League Club, and was involved in many other organizations.
Photos:
(above left)
LeMoyne Building, 1915
(above right)
Locomobile Building, 1909
