Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain
On July 6, 1959, a small barge ferried Queen Elizabeth II from the HMY Britannia anchored outside of Monroe Harbor to the aptly named Queen’s Landing for a 13-hour royal visit spectacular. As we pass this historic site Buckingham Fountain comes into view. (Pro Tip: this is a great time for a photo op.) Buckingham Fountain, one of the world’s largest fountains, was designed as a focal centerpiece for Grant Park. According to the Chicago Park District website, John Philips Souza himself conducted his band in the playing of “Pomp and Circumstance” before an audience of 50,000 people during the fountain’s dedication in August 1927. Contrary to conventional wisdom, Buckingham fountain is not related to Buckingham Palace or the Royal Family. The fountain was actually donated by Chicago art patron and philanthropist, Kate Buckingham in memorial honor of her brother Clearance Buckingham.