I think when we write the stories of our ancestors, or even our current history, it is good to explore the buildings in the area in which our ancestors resided. Learning the history of a particular part of the city or buildings in which your ancestors worked or conducted business can add a lot to their written story.
The book Chicago In and Around the Loop by Gerard R. Wolfe, is a book of “Walking Tours of Architecture and History” for the city of Chicago. The book is broken down by chapters which are a specific part of the city. Each chapter begins with a map of the area in which the walking tour is conducted. It then goes on to describe each building on the tour complete with the building’s history. Sprinkled in each chapter are current and past photos of the buildings. It even includes a Pedway Tour. Have you ever explored the underground of the city? The book also contains a Glossary; Resources on organizations related to Chicago Architecture and History; Recommended Readings; and an extensive index.
If you are looking for something fun to do this summer in Chicago, pick up a copy of this book and take a tour. You might discover something exciting about your family!
