Fire crews return as blaze reignites at historic Swift mansion in Bronzeville

Chicago Fire Department crews douse rekindled flames at the historic Swift mansion in Bronzeville on Sunday afternoon. The fire is being investigated as an arson. The building dates to 1892 and was recently home to the Inner City Youth and Adult Foundation. (Chicago Fire Department)

Two fires broke out at the historic Swift mansion in Bronzeville on Sunday afternoon, Chicago fire officials said.

Chicago police are investigating the incident as arson.

Initial reports said the fire at 4500 S. Michigan Ave. was on the third floor. The fire was put down by noon, officials said.

At about 2:45 p.m., firefighters were again called to the address when another fire was reported and flames were seen coming through the roof.

The second fire was put down just after 4 p.m. There were no injuries reported.

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The historic home, built in 1892 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, was originally a gift from meatpacking executive Gustavus F. Swift to his daughter Helen for her wedding to Nelson Morris, the son of another executive in the industry.

It was recently home to the Inner City Youth and Adult Foundation and had previously served as a headquarters for the Chicago Urban League and a funeral home.

The Swift mansion on Sunday evening. (Emmanuel Camarillo/Sun-Times)

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— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) December 3, 2023

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— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) December 3, 2023

Contributing: Emmanuel Camarillo