Development

The Dumbach Society is named after the founder of Loyola Academy , Rev. Henry J. Dumbach, S.J.  Father Dumbach (1862-1909) entered the Jesuit Novitate at age 15, studying philosophy and theology.  While President and Rector of St. Ignatius College (1900-1908), he purchased a 25 acre site from the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad for the University for $161,255.  The site, now Loyola University , was then known as Hayes Point and was sandy brushland.  The 1908 extension of the “L” from Wilson Avenue north to Howard Street made the site accessible to the public.

Dumbach Hall was the original Loyola Academy of St. Ignatius College.  Classes began in 1909 as the Classical High School Course and Commercial High School Course.  Annual tuition was $100.  Dumbach Hall now houses classrooms and the physical plant staff.

The Dumbach Society Membership Form.