Our History

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation is part of the legacy of Col. Robert R. McCormick, the long-time editor and publisher of the Chicago Tribune.

Col. McCormick grew up in a family committed to civic engagement and community service. He was the grandson of newspaper pioneer, Joseph Medill, one of the early publishers and owners of the Chicago Tribune. Col. McCormick built upon his grandfather’s legacy, was publisher and editor of the Chicago Tribune for more than 40 years, and built a media empire, which included WGN Radio and WGN Television.

Col. McCormick had many roles in his life, including public servant, citizen soldier, philanthropist, and staunch defender of the First Amendment, especially the freedom of press. His civic leadership helped transform Chicago into one of the world’s greatest cities.

At 23, he became alderman of the 21^st Ward. From 1905 to 1910, he was the president of the Chicago Sanitary District.

Col. McCormick was a citizen soldier and a friend of veterans. He served in the Illinois National Guard and, in 1917, at the age of 36 volunteered for duty in France during World War I. There he fought with the First Division at the Battle of Cantigny, America’s first major battle of the war. Later, he renamed his farm in Wheaton “Cantigny.” A reserve officer and a founding member of the American Legion, he often hosted his fellow veterans at Cantigny. McCormick was buried in his World War I uniform with military honors.

Col. McCormick was among Chicago’s first major philanthropists, with his generosity shaping the city he loved. Upon his death in 1955, he left an estate estimated at $55 million. His will established what would become one of the nation’s leading charitable foundations.

Today, the Foundation continues Col. McCormick’s legacy, with the mission of fostering communities of educated, informed and engaged citizens. Since 1955, the McCormick Foundation has invested more than $1.5 billion in the areas of journalism, education, social services, civic engagement, and veterans’ programs.

The Foundation also oversees Cantigny Park, once the Colonel’s estate, in west suburban Wheaton, now a center for recreation, learning and civic engagement that has enriched the lives of millions of visitors.

With more than 60 years of philanthropic giving, the Robert R. McCormick Foundation remains dedicated to building stronger communities.