The Amazing Architecture of the Auditorium Theater
Recently I wrote an article for the Detours blog listing the most overlooked beautiful buildings in Chicago. A few days later we received an email from an employee of the Auditorium Theater. She asked why their historic venue had not been included. I replied, in all honesty, that I didn’t think the Auditorium Theater was […]
The Sweet Sounds and Sights of Chicago Gospel Music History and Architecture
Chicago Gospel music history is one of the city’s greatest and perhaps most unsung stories. People know of jazz and blues history in Chicago, but not as many know how gospel flourished here. The annual Chicago Gospel Music Festival is this weekend, so exploring this rich history seems apt. The personalities, buildings, and sounds of […]
Historic Chicago Synagogue Architecture at KAM Isaiah Israel
KAM Isaiah Israel is the oldest Jewish congregation in Chicago. Some may know it for as the building with the striking octagonal architecture and dome, located next door to Obama’s house in the Kenwood-Hyde Park neighborhood. The synagogue traces its roots back to the 1841 arrival of the first Jewish settlers in Chicago. My wife works at KAM Isaiah Israel, so […]
Five Forgotten Bits of Presidential History in Chicago
I came up with a list of five forgotten historical facts relating to presidential history in Chicago in honor of Presidents’ Day. Our city’s size and importance means we have a surprisingly robust history of Presidential activity. Of course, everyone know about the 1968 Democratic National Convention riots and President Obama’s victory speech in Grant Park. Instead […]
Five Reasons to Visit Spooky Chicago Cemeteries
As we lead up to my favorite holiday, Halloween, it seems fitting to talk about the many Chicago cemeteries. Let’s ponder on some cool reasons for going to visit Chicago cemeteries. Technically, some of the best Chicago cemeteries are just outside the borders of the city. All cemeteries were transferred beyond the city limits in […]
The Prairie Style of Lincoln Park Zoo Architecture
Dwight H. Perkins, prairie school architect, has a number of relevant buildings located throughout Chicago, yet has traveled under the historical-radar. His most famous buildings are located in the Lincoln Park Zoo and offer an opportunity to learn more about the oldest public zoo in North America.