WILLIAM BRYCE MUNDIE
1863-1939
Upon arriving in Chicago in 1884, William Bryce Mundie was hired immediately by William Le Baron Jenney. In 1891, he was promoted to partner and the company name changed to Jenney & Mundie. Through the 1890s, Mundie worked with Jenney on prominent projects including Leiter II (1891-present), the Ludington Building (1891-present), the Horticultural Building at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and the New York Life Insurance Building (1894-present).
Mundie served as the architect for the Chicago Board of Education from 1898-1904. During this time, he designed many schools, including the landmarked Wendell Phillips High School. He was essential in the development of fire safety guidelines and encouraged the school board to implement fire safety construction methods.
Upon William Le Baron Jenney’s retirement, Mundie promoted Elmer Jensen to be his partner and the firm operated under the name Mundie & Jensen from 1907-1936. During this time, many impressive buildings were designed including the Lake View Building (1906-present), the Union League Club (1926-present) and the West Town State Bank (1930-present).
Mundie was an active member of numerous clubs in Chicago including the Architectural Sketch Club, Cliff Dwellers and the Union League Club. He was a fellow of the American Institute of Architects and served terms as board member and vice president. Being of Scottish heritage, Mundie was active in the St. Andrews Society and designed the Scottish Home in North Riverside.
Photos:
(above left)
Wendell Phillips High School, 1904
(above middle)
New York Life Building, 1894
(above right)
Central YMCA Building, 1894
