History of Chicago - Your Chicago Guide

The Fascinating History of Navy Pier

Discover why Navy Pier was a vital piece of the Plan of Chicago

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Bootleggers, Tee-totalers, and Egg-throwing Apes: stories from Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse

Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse sits on the northwest corner of Block 1. The restaurant opened in 1987, but the story of this location is much, much older. The first time you see the building at the southeast corner of Kinzie and Dearborn, you’ll do a double-take. Then a triple. You’ll realize you’re staring. “There’s a …

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Making the World a Better Place: the Story of Hull-House and Jane Addams

Hull-House Museum showcases the works of Jane Addams, Ellen Gates Starr, and several other prominent philanthropists and activists. Learn the stories behind these women and the house itself. In the late 1800s, wealthy Americans toured Europe. It was the cosmopolitan thing to do. For many, it was a shopping trip, and today’s museums are filled …

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The Story Behind the Stacks: How Newberry Library Came to Be

Learn the story behind Newberry Library, one of the best research libraries for humanities in the world. Walter Loomis Newberry was the kind of man who prepared. Before moving to Chicago in 1833, he’d already invested in real estate. The town was barely a town, but Walter went ahead and plunked down some cash for …

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Chicago’s Symbol of Hope: the Historic Water Tower

The historic Water Tower stands tall above Michigan Avenue. Learn the story behind this Living Landmark. In a city of symbols, the one that most emphatically says “Chicago” is the historic Water Tower. One of the few buildings to remain standing after the great Chicago fire, the tower and pumping station are portrayed as representatives of …

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Glessner House: a Remarkable Home for a Remarkable Family

The Glessner House is a remarkable home designed by H.H. Richardson. Meet the family who defied wealthy Victorian-era stereotypes. The building on the corner of 18th and Prairie is like a lava cake rolled in a thick layer of coarsely chopped nuts. On the outside, it’s crunchy and looks like it could hurt you. But …

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Driehaus Museum: The Story Behind the $100,000,000 Mansion

Learn the story behind the Driehaus Museum, one of Chicago’s most impressive – and expensive – landmarks. When Samuel and Matilda Nickerson decided to build their new home in 1879 they did not mess around. They chose the hottest neighborhood, the best architect, and the safest and most expensive materials they could find. The Nickersons …

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Palmer House Hilton: Myths & Romance in Chicago’s Oldest Hotel

The Palmer House is opulence defined. Its chandeliers and sculptures weigh a ton, literally. Entering the lobby through the travertine double staircase is like being smacked on one cheek with history and on the other with affluence. To state the obvious, it’s gorgeous, and it is the most historic and luxurious hotel lobby in Chicago. …

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