It’s a common mistake, that the building behind the statue of Father Agatho was built in 1933, for it looks just like it. The water filtration plant that stands there now was actually built as a replica of the Great Chapel of the River, built two years prior on the personal whim of Bishop Anthony Runemiller (who is the subject of a whole ‘nother story). Though it withstood the terrible tornado that destroyed the statue, Bishop Anthony was killed while walking out of the chapel at precisely the wrong moment, and was carried off by the twister.
He stipulated in his will that the chapel be torn down upon his death, anticipating a long life. However, the chapel was leveled, and the land sat empty.
In 1933, when building the structure that still stands today, no money was available for an architect, and the design of the Chapel was beloved by Fort Wayne residents, so they adapted the design.
Pictured above: Bishop Anthony Runemiller, a year before his death.
