The Museum of Science and Industry has been renamed the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago.

The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago

In a move that will forever etch the name of a visionary philanthropist into the annals of Chicago's revered cultural institutions, the Museum of Science and Industry (Museum of Science and Industry.) is set to undergo a transformative rechristening, paying tribute to Kenneth C. Griffin's generosity and foresight. 

This esteemed recognition follows a historic $125 million donation by Ken C. Griffin, the founder and CEO of Citadel, a leading global investment firm, and Founder of Griffin Catalyst, which encompasses Griffin's philanthropic and community impact efforts, focusing on identifying critical areas of need and delivering meaningful and scalable results that transform lives and better communities. 

The donation in 2019 is the largest in the museum's history. To celebrate its first official day as the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, the Museum will offer free admission on Sunday, May 19, 2024.

The Museum of Science and Industry changed its name to honor the philanthropist Kenneth C. Griffin.

Griffin's remarkable contribution is a testament to his unwavering commitment to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. 

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STEM education is an interdisciplinary approach to learning that focuses on the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the 21st-century workforce and solve complex, real-world problems.

STEM education will profoundly impact the museum's ability to inspire future generations of innovators, thinkers, inventors, and leaders. This landmark donation will enable Museum of Science and Industry. to expand its reach, enhance its exhibits, and foster a culture of curiosity and discovery, cementing its position as a premier destination for scientific exploration and learning.

In recognition of Griffin's extraordinary philanthropy, the museum will henceforth be known as the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, a fitting tribute to a champion of education, innovation, and progress. This naming honor acknowledges Griffin's transformative gift and serves as a lasting reminder of his dedication to empowering individuals and communities through the power of science and education.

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"We are incredibly grateful to Ken Griffin for his historic and generous investment in our Museum, our mission, and our long-term future," said Dr. Chevy Humphrey, President and CEO of the Griffin MSI. "This gift helps us create exhibits of the future geared toward the next generation of scientists and leaders; it allows us to dig our heels in deeper to support science education in local schools and neighborhoods in new, more profound ways; and it enables us to carry out our mission to inspire the inventive genius in all of us."

As the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry embarks on this exciting new chapter, it does so with a renewed sense of purpose and a deepened commitment to its mission of inspiring and educating the public about the wonders of science and technology. Griffin's generosity will have a lasting impact on the museum's ability to spark imagination, fuel curiosity, and shape the minds of tomorrow's leaders, ensuring that the museum remains a beacon of innovation and discovery for generations to come.

The donation has helped the institution launch several new immersive experiences, including the Griffin Studio, a one-of-a-kind digital space. It also aided the renovation of the Henry Crown Space Center.

The gift supported a new home for the SpaceX Dragon Spacecraft. This mission-flown Dragon spacecraft undertook two missions to deliver cargo and scientific experiments to the International Space Station (ISS)
in 2017 and 2019.

"The renaming provides an opportunity for us to celebrate the Museum's legacy and embrace its future," said David Vitale, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Board Chairman.

Kenneth C. Griffin - Chicago Philanthropy.

• Griffin had contributed millions to the Art Institute of Chicago, public education, the Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago, the Chicago Public Library, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Griffin also contributed to the Museum of Contemporary Art, the "Evolving Planet" at the Field Museum of Natural History, and endowed professorships at the University of Chicago. 

• In October 2006, the Griffins and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funded and supported the opening of Woodlawn High School, a new charter school in Chicago.

• In 2007, Griffin donated to the Art Institute of Chicago a $19 million addition designed by Renzo Piano.

• In October 2009, Griffin and his wife founded the Kenneth and Anne Griffin Foundation. The foundation's contributions include $10 million for the Chicago Heights Early Childhood Center, $16 million for Children's Memorial Hospital, and total funding for the University of Chicago's Early Childhood Center.

• In December 2016, Griffin gave $12 million to the Chicago Park District to help fund separate paths for cyclists and pedestrians along the city's 18-mile lakefront.

• In November 2017, the Kenneth C. Griffin Charitable Fund made a new $125 million gift to support the Department of Economics of the University of Chicago, which he was honored with the department being renamed the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics.

• A $16.5 million donation allowed the Field Museum to purchase a cast of the largest dinosaur ever discovered in 2018, a 122-foot-long Argentinian titanosaur named Máximo.

• In October 2019, the Kenneth C. Griffin Charitable Fund announced a $125 million gift to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, the largest gift in the museum's history. The museum intends to change its name to the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. 

• In 2024, Kenneth C. Griffin donated $125 million to the Museum of Science and Industry. The museum's name was changed to Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

The Fortnightly Club of Chicago, for Women, was founded in 1873.

The Fortnightly Club of Chicago is a venerable and esteemed private women's club, founded in the year 1873 by Kate Newell Doggett (1828–1884) was an American botanist and suffragist, with the express purpose of providing a convivial and intellectually stimulating environment for women to engage in academic discussions, cultural enrichment, and community service. The club's nomenclature, "Fortnightly," is a nod to its original meeting schedule, which took place every fourteen days, or fortnightly, hence the name. It is the oldest women's association in Chicago. The club aims to enrich the intellectual and social lives of its members. In 1874, Doggett translated the French book The Grammar of Painting and Engraving into English.

Throughout its illustrious history, the club has been a bastion of intellectual and artistic pursuits, attracting a membership comprising some of Chicago's most accomplished, discerning, and philanthropically inclined women. The club's activities foster a sense of community, camaraderie, and cultural sophistication among its members, who gather regularly to engage in lively discussions, lectures, performances, and other events that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage.

Literary reviews and discussions are a hallmark of the club's programming, with members delving into the works of celebrated authors, poets, and playwrights, both past and present. Additionally, the club features lectures on various subjects, including art, history, science, and technology, delivered by experts in their respective fields. Musical performances, concerts, and recitals are also an integral part of the club's cultural offerings, showcasing the talents of local and international artists.

Philanthropy and community service are core components of the club's mission. Members actively support local arts organizations, educational initiatives, and social service projects that benefit the greater Chicago community. The club's commitment to giving back is reflected in its numerous charitable endeavors, impacting countless individuals and families throughout the city.

Membership in The Fortnightly Club of Chicago is by invitation only, extended to women who share the club's values, interests, and passion for lifelong learning. Members include professionals, artists, writers, and community leaders who are united by their desire to engage in stimulating conversations, expand their knowledge, and contribute to the betterment of society.

The club's clubhouse in the heart of Chicago is a warm and welcoming gathering place for members who share ideas, exchange perspectives, and forge lasting friendships. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and dedication to community service, The Fortnightly Club of Chicago remains a beloved and respected institution cherished by its members and the community at large.

Notable members Included Jane Addams, founder of Hull House and the first Juvenile Court in the nation; Bertha (Mrs. Potter) Palmer, society figure, art collector, and head of the Board of Lady Managers at the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893; and Dr. Sarah Hackett Stevenson, the first female member of the American Medical Association. 

The Fortnightly owns and meets in this stately landmarked Helen and Bryan Lathrop House at

120 E. Bellevue Place in Chicago's Gold Coast community. FortNightlyChicago.org

The club's activities include:

• Literary reviews and discussions
• Lectures on art, history, and science
• Musical performances and concerts
• Philanthropic activities and community service

The Fortnightly Club of Chicago is very active today. Its focus is on fostering a sense of community and intellectual exploration among its members.

Membership:

Membership is by invitation only and is extended to women who share the club's values and interests. Members include professionals, artists, writers, and community leaders.

Meetings:

The club meets regularly at its clubhouse in Chicago, with meetings often featuring guest speakers, performances, or discussions on topics of interest to members.

Philanthropy:

The club is involved in various philanthropic activities, including supporting local arts organizations, educational initiatives, and community service projects.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Carl Sandburg Village, 1355 N Sandburg Terrace, Chicago, Promoted Social Changes.

The History of Carl Sandburg Village

Carl Sandburg Village was built as an urban renewal project—intended to spur redevelopment of the diminishing near north side from its dilapidation. Sandburg Village emerged from the post-World War II urban renewal era in American cities. In the 1950s and early 1960s, Chicago's Near North Side, particularly the Old Town neighborhood, faced concerns about aging infrastructure and potential encroachment from nearby low-income communities. City planners, seeking to revitalize Old Town and shield the affluent Gold Coast neighborhood, envisioned a large-scale renewal project. This led to Carl Sandburg Village, named after the celebrated poet, intended as a mixed-income housing development. Its creation, however, came at the cost of displacing a vibrant Puerto Rican community.

Carl Sandburg Village Arial Photo.

The architectural firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz designed Sandburg Village in a modernist style, emphasizing clean lines and functional spaces. The complex includes towering residential high-rises, clusters of townhomes, and a centralized commercial district, aiming to create a self-contained community within Chicago's urban fabric.

The construction of Carl Sandburg Village had a profound impact. The displacement of Puerto Rican residents sparked controversy and ignited a debate about social justice and the priorities of urban renewal. These residents primarily relocated north to Lincoln Park and west to Humboldt Park.

Carl Sandburg Village Sales Model.

This displacement fueled significant social and political changes. The Young Lords Organization, previously a street gang, emerged from this displaced community. They transformed into a powerful human rights movement dedicated to Puerto Rican empowerment and opposing the urban renewal practices that had uprooted them in 1968.

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The ranks of the new Young Lords included former gang members, community residents, and activists. The Young Lords actively created change while serving poor and destressed communities. They notably utilized a church to offer basic services—such as health care, daycare, and lunch programs—to Black and Latino people. By 1969, Jiménez and the Young Lords had joined with Fred Hampton, leader of the Chicago Black Panthers, and other ethnically diverse groups to form the Rainbow Coalition. 

Carl Sandburg Village shifted from its initial affordable housing model to condominium ownership. While still somewhat affordable within the Gold Coast context, continued gentrification trends in Chicago have impacted the Village, influencing demographics and affordability in 1979.

Sandburg Village Today.

Despite its complex history, Sandburg Village retains a distinct appeal. Its green spaces, swimming pools, tennis courts, and prime location attract residents. The Village embodies a blend of the past and present – mid-century urban planning intersected with contemporary urban living trends and evolving neighborhood identities. Its walkability to grocery stores, nightlife, the lakefront, Lincoln Park, and Old Town's attractions adds to its appeal with 

charming experiences of unique boutiques, bistros, restaurants, entertainment like the Second City Comedy Club, Live Music Venues at bars and pubs, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, historic homes on picturesque streets, and the long-running Old Town Art Fair, founded in 1950.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Merchandise Mart in Chicago, History and Little Known Facts.

The Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, a colossal monolith on the Chicago River, boasts a rich history as grand as scale and as vibrant as the city itself. From its Art Deco beginnings to its modern-day transformation as a tech hub, I delve into the whole story of this iconic Chicago landmark:

In the roaring 1920s, Chicago retail titan Marshall Field & Company envisioned a revolutionary concept: a single, centralized marketplace for wholesale goods. Enter James Simpson, the company's visionary President, who commissioned the construction of the 4.2 million square feet Merchandise Mart. 

The Merchandise Mart is under construction, as seen from the Lake Street Bridge in 1929. —Chicago Tribune historical photo.

Transforming the site of the historic Wells Street Station site, construction began in 1928; by 1930, the behemoth stood tall, dwarfing its surroundings. At the time, the Mart was the largest building in the world by floor space, a title it held for over a decade. Its imposing Art Deco facade, adorned with geometric patterns and stylized eagles, reflected the era's optimism and grandeur.

The view of the new Merchandise Mart was still under construction in 1929.
—Chicago Tribune historical photo.

The Mart, designed by Alfred P. Shaw of Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, embraced the Art Deco aesthetic. Its sleek lines, geometric forms, and limestone-terracotta cladding exuded modernity and ambition. 

The Mart wasn't just a building; it was a self-contained city. It housed Field's wholesale showrooms, manufacturing facilities, and a plethora of amenities for tenants and visitors alike. Restaurants, banks, postal services, and even a telegraph office buzzed with activity, making the Mart a bustling hub of commerce.

An aerial view of the Merchandise Mart in 1930.
—Chicago Tribune historical photo.

The Mart's official opening in 1930 was a momentous occasion. It housed Field's wholesale showrooms, manufacturing facilities, restaurants, a bank, a post office, a telegraph office, and a plethora of amenities for tenants and visitors alike. It was a self-contained city within a city. However, the Great Depression soon cast a shadow, making it initially challenging to fill the vast space.

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The Merchandise Mart was once the largest building in the world by floor space, a title it held until the Pentagon's construction in 1943.

The Great Depression threw a wrench in the Mart's initial success. The wholesale market dwindled, forcing the Mart to diversify. Over the years, it transitioned from a purely wholesale center to a multi-purpose complex, welcoming office tenants and diverse businesses.

It housed manufacturing facilities for war materials during World War II (1939-1945). The legendary Kennedy family acquired the Merchandise Mart in 1945, ushering in a new ownership era. Under their guidance, the Mart continued to evolve, adapting to the changing times. 

The Merchandise Mart in 1949.

In the 1950s, it found new life as a center for design and architecture.

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The building's rooftop was used as a landing pad for helicopters during the early days of air travel by helicopter. In 1953, New York Airways became the first scheduled passenger helicopter air carrier in the United States. In the 1950s and 1960s, "helicopter airlines" operated in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, carrying people to and from the airport at high fares. 

Merry Christmas is written in lights on the Merchandise Mart on November 25, 1964. —Chicago Tribune historical photo.

A Top University History Professor Critiques this Article.

INTERESTING MERCHANDISE MART FACTS:

Federal, State, and Local Government Offices:

During World War II, the Merchandise Mart saw declining tenant interest in its original function. The building was converted to house various federal government offices to fill vacancies due to its vast space and central location. This lasted until the 1950s.

The Mart again welcomed several state and local government offices as tenants in 1990.

The CTA's presence in the Merchandise Mart:

The CTA moved its headquarters into the Merchandise Mart in 1942, occupying several floors. The CTA's offices in the Merchandise Mart were home to various departments, including administration, planning, and operations. The CTA relocated its headquarters to a new building at 567 West Lake Street, Chicago, as part of a larger effort to improve its efficiency and customer service.

The CTA sold its remaining office space in the Merchandise Mart in 2006.

The CTA Merchandise Mart 'L' Station.

The Merchandise Mart is still a central CTA transportation hub, with an 'L' station on the Red Line (the North-South line), the Brown Line (the Ravenswood line), and the Purple Line (the Evanston Express line) on weekdays during rush hour.

1970 Merchandise Mart CTA Station. The'L' sign says "Evanston - Wilmette."

The CTA buses that stop at the Merchandise Mart are:

Washington & State (Routes 126, 152, 156).

Michigan & Randolph (Routes 62, 128, 151, 155, 157).

Orleans & Merchandise Mart (Routes 60, 65).

The RTA buses that stop at the Merchandise Mart are:

Merchandise Mart (Routes 27, 36).

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The iconic "heads" (busts) on the roof of the Merchandise Mart building actually had two distinct chapters in the building's history. While neither group currently graces the building's rooftop today, their stories deserve to be told:

Chapter 1: The Native American Chiefs (1930-1961)

A Controversial Adornment: When the Merchandise Mart opened in 1930, its rooftop boasted 56 sculpted heads of Native American chiefs, designed by John Awre. 

Uncertain Names: Not all the chiefs had identified names. Some were assigned names based on tribal affiliations or geographical regions, while others remained anonymous. The identification process was complex and controversial, so some names may be inaccurate or disputed.

Stereotypical Representation: It's important to remember that the sculptures reflected the era's romanticized and inaccurate portrayals of Native American cultures. They did not represent individual historical figures and perpetuated harmful stereotypes.

Legend of the Piasa "Bird," an Ancient Indian pictograph

carved on a bluff in Alton, IL.

1. Apache: "ah-PAH-chee," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
2. Arapaho: "A-ra-pa-ho," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
3. Arikara: "uh-rih-kuh-rah," An Indigenous Tribe.
4. Assiniboine: "uh-sin-uh-boin," An Indigenous Tribe.
5. Blackfoot: "Black-foo-t," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
6. Caddo: "KAH-doh," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
7. Cayuga: "kay-YOO-ga," An Indigenous Tribe
8. Cheyenne: "shy-AN," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
9. Cherokee: "chEH-ruh-kEE," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
10. Chickasaw: "CHIK-ə-saw," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
11. Chinook: "Chok-NOOK," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
12. Chippewa: "chi-puh-waa," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
13. Choctaw: "Chauk taw," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
14. Comanche: "kuh-MAN-chee," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
15. Cree: Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
16. Crow: The crow tribe's name is Apsáalooke "ahp-SAH-loo-keh," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
17. Delaware: A Tribe - called initially the Lenape tribe, aka Munsee and Unami bands.
18. Flathead: A Chief - "Ahl-shah-taa-pee," named by Europeans for Chief (Flat Head).
19. Gros Ventre: "Groh Vahn-truh," ("big belly," French) Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
20. Haida: "Hay Da," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
21. Hopi: "HOH-pee," An Indigenous Tribe.
22. Huron: "Hoo-RON," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
23. Iroquois: "ear-ro-kwa" (French), Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
24. Kalapuya: "Cal-uh-poo-yuh," An Indigenous Tribe.
25. Kansas: "KAN-zəs," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
26. Kiowa: "Hy-oh-wa," An Indigenous Tribe.
27. Kootenay: "KOOT-nee," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
28. Lenape: "lun-NAH-pay," An Indigenous Tribe - aka Delaware Tribe
29. Lummi: "LUH-mee," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
30. Mandan: "mah-N'-DAN," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
31. Menominee: "Meh-NOH-meh-nee," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
32. Miami: Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
33. Micmac: "Meeg-em-ach," An Indigenous Tribe.
34. Modoc: "MO-dock," An Indigenous Tribe.
35. Mohawk: "Mo-hawk," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
36. Navajo: "na-va-ho," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
37. Nez Perce: "Nay Pers-say," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.[1]
38. Nuutka: "Nuu-chah-nulth," aka Nootka, An Indigenous Tribe. 
39. Ojibwe: "Oh-JIB-way," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
40. Osage: "OH-sage," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs. 
41. Ottawa: "Ah-dah-wa," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
42. Papago: "pap-uh-goh," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
43. Pawnee: "PAWN-ee" Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
44. Penobscot: "peh-NOB-skot," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
45. Pomo: "po-MOH," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
46. Ponca: "Pohn-kuh," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
47. Potawatomi: "Boh-da-wah-dmi," (Tribal Pronunciation), An Indigenous Tribe.
48. Pueblo: a group of tribes (i.e., The Illinois), Indigenous Tribes & Chiefs.
49. Quapaw: An Indigenous Tribe.
50. Sauk (Sac) & Meskwaki (Fox): "Mesk-wa-ki," Indigenous Tribes.
51. Salish: "Slah-LEESH," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
52. Seminole: "Sem-uh-NO-le," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
53. Seneca: "Sen-eh-kuh," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.
54. Shoshone: "shoh-SHO-nee," An Indigenous Tribe.
55. Sioux: "soo," (confederation of 7 nations; i.e., Illinois), Indigenous Tribes & Chiefs.
56. Ute: "Yoo-tey," Indigenous Tribe & Chiefs.

[1] The name "Nez Perce" ("pierced nose") is actually a misnomer: It comes from French fur traders who mistakenly applied it to the tribe based on a misunderstanding of their cultural practice of nose ornaments. The tribe prefers to be called Nimiipuu, which means "The People."

This reflected a popular Art Deco motif of the time but also carried problematic connotations of cultural appropriation and romanticized stereotypes. 

Shifting Tides: As social awareness grew in the mid-20th century, the depictions of the chiefs faced increasing criticism for their insensitivity. By 1961, the decision was made to remove them from the building.

What Happened to the "Indian Heads?" In 1961, the heads were deemed outdated and removed from the roof. 

Most were sadly destroyed, but a few found their way to different destinations:

• Two busts were found in the Campia family's home in Lake Forest and auctioned off in 2014.

• January 26, 2024, the exact location of the remaining heads is unknown.

The two auctioned busts might be in private collections, but their specific ownership is not publicly available.

So, while most of the Indian "heads" are unfortunately lost to history, a small piece of their legacy survives in private hands. 

A Top University Professor Critiques this Article

Chapter 2: The Merchandise Mart Hall of Fame

Standing tall as guardians of American commerce, eight colossal bronze busts grace the entrance of The Merchandise Mart, the world's largest wholesale buying center in Chicago. These larger-than-life figures immortalize some of the most influential figures in American retail history, their names and companies woven into the very fabric of consumer culture.

Commissioned in 1953 by Joseph Patrick Kennedy Sr., the 44th U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, these four-times-life-size busts stand as a testament to the vision and dedication of the men who shaped the American retail landscape. Each bust, meticulously crafted in bronze, captures the essence of its subject, with its determined gazes fixed on the future of commerce.

From Frank Winfield Woolworth's 5 & Dime stores to Marshall Field's luxurious emporiums, these pioneers revolutionized how Americans shopped. Their innovative ideas and unwavering commitment to quality forever changed the face of retail, leaving an enduring legacy that inspires generations of entrepreneurs.

Marshall Field

1. Frank Winfield Woolworth: The founder of F.W. Woolworth Company.
2. Marshall Field: The founder of Marshall Field and Company.
3. Aaron Montgomery Ward: The founder of Montgomery Ward & Company.
4. Julius Rosenwald: Was a Sears, Roebuck, and Company President.
5. Robert Elkington Wood: Was a Sears, Roebuck, and Company President.
6. John Wanamaker: The father of modern advertising.
7. Edward Albert Filene: Preseident of William Feline & Sons. Filene's department stores.
8. George Huntington Hartford: He founded The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. (A&P)

A Top University History Professor Critiques this Article.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Grant Park Stadium was renamed Soldier Field at the urging of Chicago’s Gold Star Mothers on November 11, 1925.

Opened on October 9, 1924, Grant Park Stadium was designed by the architecture firm of Holabird & Roche. Neo-classical in style, the design pays homage to the ancient Roman Colosseum, creating a venue that exudes strength, resilience, and a sense of grandeur. The original configuration was shaped like a U, with the structure's opening facing the Field Museum. This allowed for easy access to the field and a direct view of the Field Museum for spectators.

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According to the Chicago History Museum, the stadium was never officially known as Municipal Grant Park Stadium. The name was used in some news articles and promotional materials, but it was never officially adopted by the city or the Chicago Park District (founded on July 1, 1934).

Not originally intended to be a football stadium, the idea was to create a space to host various events, including sports, military drills, concerts, exhibitions, and community gatherings, while also serving as a place of remembrance. The design was inspired by classical architecture, featuring a colonnade facade with Doric columns that encircled the stadium. The seating bowl of the stadium was initially built using a wooden grandstand, which could accommodate around 45,000 spectators.

On November 11, 1925, the stadium was renamed Soldier Field to honor the city's World War I veterans. The name change was officially dedicated on November 27, 1926, during a football game between Army and Navy.

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In 1968, Soldier Field hosted the first Special Olympics. The City of Chicago changed the address of Soldier Field to 1410 Special Olympics Drive on June 24, 2018. This was done to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the Special Olympics and to recognize the stadium's role as the birthplace of the movement.

The stadium became the permanent home of the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL) in 1971.

In 1978, the plank seats were replaced with individual seats. To offer fans a better view, seats were moved closer to the field, increasing the stadium seating capacity to nearly 57,000. 

Throughout the mid-20th century, Soldier Field underwent renovations, including the construction of a grandstand in the open end of the U, the replacement of plank seating with individual seats in 1978, seats were moved closer to the field, a new press box, and the addition of more than 100 skyboxes. This increased spectator capacity to more than 66,000.

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Early  years hosted events included:

• The 1926 Army-Navy Football Game. 
• The second Dempsey-Tunney World Championship boxing match. 
• The University of Notre Dame has played 13 football games at Soldier Field, including. Notre Dame defeated Northwestern 13-6 on November 22. 
• Opening day Century of Progress ceremonies were held in Soldier Field on May 27, 1933. 

Ticket № 3. Opening Day World Fair Ceremonies at Soldier Field.

Major sporting events at Soldier Field include:

• The January 5, 1986, NFL Divisional playoffs and the January 12 Championship games were held at Soldier Field, leading to the Chicago Bears winning Super Bowl XX against New England Patriots, 46 to 10, in the Louisiana Superdome on January 26, 1986.
• Three 1994 FIFA World Cup Games Held at Soldier Field: 
• June 17, 1994: The opening ceremony, emceed by Oprah Winfrey, and the opening game, featuring defending champion Germany.
• June 21, 1994: Germany vs. Spain.
• July 2, 1994: Germany vs. Belgium; Brazil won the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

However, the most controversial chapter in Soldier Field's architectural journey occurred in the early 2000s when the stadium underwent a major renovation. The Chicago Park District, which owns the property, faced substantial criticism when it announced plans to alter the stadium with a design by Benjamin T. Wood and Carlos Zapata of Wood & Zapata in Boston. The stadium grounds were reconfigured by local architecture firm Lohan Associates, led by architect Dirk Lohan, grandson of Mies van der Rohe.

The renovation aimed to modernize Soldier Field while preserving its historic façade. Completed in 2003, the updated Soldier Field retained its classic colonnade while incorporating a bold and contemporary design. Adding a glass and steel structure, known as the "Grand Concourse," brought a jolt of modernity to the stadium, while the two elliptical seating structures on either side of the original colonnades are striking additions to the structure.

While the innovative design allowed for enhanced amenities, increased seating capacity, and improved accessibility for fans, many preservationists, architecture critics and residents were not thrilled about the renovation. The modern additions were seen as incongruous with the stadium's neoclassical origins. "It looks like a spaceship landed." Debates about the design of the stadium continue today.

Despite the controversy, Soldier Field attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators for NFL games, athletic events, concerts and more. As the Chicago Bears look to move their home field to another location, the future of the iconic field by the lake is yet to be determined.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

The Newberry Library and Walter Loomis Newberry's History.

Walter Loomis Newberry died on November 6, 1868, during a return trip from France for medical treatment. His bequest of $2.1 million ($46 million today) would eventually result in the foundation of the Newberry Library on July 1, 1887.

Walter Newberry was a businessman and philanthropist who was a prominent figure in the early development of Chicago, Illinois. He was born in East Windsor, Connecticut, on September 18, 1804, and moved to Chicago in 1833. 

Walter Loomis Newberry (1804-1868)

Newberry quickly established himself as a successful businessman with interests in land development, banking, shipping, and railroads. He was also a civic leader, serving as an alderman on the Chicago Common Council and President (1863-1863) of the Chicago Board of Education.

Newberry was a generous philanthropist, and he donated large sums of money to support education, culture, and social welfare causes. In 1887, his will established the Newberry Library, a research library that is one of the leading independent research libraries in the Nation. 

Postcard of the Newberry Library in Chicago from Washington Square (aka Bughouse Square) c.1910 from the "I Will" series of postcards, Acmegraph Company, Chicago, ca.1910.

Today, the Newberry Library, at 60 West Walton Street, Chicago, stores tens of thousands of digital files from its collection, which consists of over 1.6 million books, 600,000 maps, and 1,300 distinct archival collections containing approximately 5 million manuscript pages. The number of digital image files stored by the Newberry Library is not publicly disclosed, but it will likely be in the millions.

Early Interior of the Newberry Library, Chicago.

Newberry was also a patron of the arts and sciences. He was a founding member of the Chicago Historical Society and the Chicago Academy of Sciences. He also donated money to support the construction of several public buildings in Chicago, including the old Chicago Main Public Library and the Chicago Art Institute. 

Newberry was one of the founders of the First Chicago Bank, which morphed into (The First National Bank of Chicago in the 1860s, which financed the Civil War; Union National Bank in 1900; Metropolitan National Bank in 1902); and today it is the Chase Bank.

The Newberry Library was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965.

Newberry died at the age of 64. He is buried in Graceland Cemetery, 4001 North Clark Street in Chicago.

Newberry's legacy continues to benefit the city of Chicago and the world. The Newberry Library is a vital resource for scholars, students, and the general public.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

The Legacy of Chicagoan David Kennison, Debunked.

RECORDED HISTORY

Most Chicagoans have likely never heard of David Kennison (aka Kinnison). And yet, when he died here in 1852, his funeral was the largest affair of its sort in the history of Chicago. The city officials paid for the funeral and donated two cemetery lots for a proper burial site, intending to erect a monument in his honor.

When he died, Chicagoans believed David Kennison to be the last Survivor of the Boston Tea Party. In addition to the honor of having such an important historical figure in their midst, early Chicagoans were also proud to claim Kennison as a Revolutionary soldier. To add to the fascination of this man, everyone knew he was old. Really old.

This boulder, honoring David Kennison, is located at the foot of Wisconsin Street at Clark Street. It was placed one city block north of the actual grave site.

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The plaque does not say that David Kennison had fought under General Washington nor that he was a soldier at Fort Dearborn (he avoided the famous massacre because he was a prisoner of the Potawatomi Indian tribe at the time). Furthermore, he claimed to have fought under General Cornwall at the Battle of Bunker Hill. 

The plaque on the boulder in Lincoln Park that commemorates the grave of David Kennison states he died at the age of 115, 3 months and 17 days. It doesn't say that people also knew he had been married four times and had twenty-two children.

The newer plaque also does not say that David Kennison had fought under General Washington and that he was a soldier at Fort Dearborn but avoided the massacre because he was a prisoner of the Potawatomi Indian tribe at the time. He also fought under General Cornwall at the Battle of Bunker Hill. These stories and more have accompanied Kennison's legacy, which was intact for over one hundred years.

DEBUNKING THE DAVID KENNISON STORY

If Kennison's birth year of 1764 is true, he was only nine years old at the time of the Boston Tea Party and twelve at the start of the Revolutionary War in 1776. His years would have precluded the possibility of his participation in the Tea Party and his enlistment in the Revolutionary War…

It is true that after 1812, Kennison gave his age in 1814 as 42 years; in 1818, he said he was 56, while in 1820, he claimed he was 79. Startling conclusions would emanate from these dates, and they would have necessitated his being born on three different dates, 1772, 1762, and 1741, respectively. When making the statement that he was 79 in 1820, he also said that he had a family of young children, 17, 14, 11, 7 and 5. years old.

Setting aside as unanswered whether or not it is remarkable for a man of this age to have so young a family, would it not be possible that the last vestige of memory as to birth year might have been obliterated from the mental tablet of this soldier, who received a severe hand wound from a musket shot, who had both legs below the knee, his collar bone and two ribs broken; and, too, who was wholly illiterate, having learned to read after he was 62 years of age?

Another point involving the question of correct birth data has evolved from anthropometry or the science of measuring the body by regions, but in this case, by stature. Documentary evidence shows that Kennison was 4'9" tall in 1781, while 33 years later, he was 5'6 1/2" tall. How was this done?

Up to about 15, girls grow tall faster than boys. From this time on to 22 and 23, boys sprint up to about the stature they retain for the rest of their days. A boy can increase his height by 9 1/2 inches between the ages of 17 to 23. These deductions are, with few exceptions, quite reliable. This would seem to be in favor of the birth year 1764. David Kennison died in 1852. Was he 115 years old or 88?

Although several gaps in the story are told of a certain soldier who died in Chicago at the age of 115 years, gaps a correct historian might wish were better bridged, nevertheless, after the late Fernando Jones, with others, had pointed out the spot of Kennison's burial place, as best they could, the following organization set up a monument to him.

In conclusion, the doctor said: "Even though metaphorically speaking, the accuracy of 1764 as the birth year would take away one glittering pearl from the crown of our hero, his unusual longevity, we have left two orbs that shine with great brilliancy – these orbs are his services in the war of independence and in the war of 1812. For these services, a grateful people clothe him with an armor that neither jealousy nor envy can tarnish, nor can the shafts of hate penetrate and efface the good work he did in helping to break asunder the throngs that were intended to bind a mighty people in servitude."

The David Kennison chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1921.

The original brass plaque in Lincoln Park, Chicago.

From that time through the 1950s, gatherings were held at the boulder to commemorate Memorial Day, Flag Day, George Washington's birthday, and the Boston Tea Party anniversary. David Kennison was consistently mentioned in various books about the Boston event and Chicago's Lincoln Park throughout this period.

After Kennison was cited in a 1959 Chicago Tribune article on the whereabouts of the remains of Illinois' Revolutionary War veterans, his name did not appear in that newspaper again until 1974. In an excerpt from a question to the Action Line column, someone wrote, "A special marker stone, complete with a bronze plaque, was placed near his grave near the Wisconsin Street entrance to the park. But look at it now! Vandals have stolen the plaque and spray-painted the rock with obscene graffiti. Is this how Kennison's grave should look for our nation's bicentennial?"

The Lincoln Park neighborhood was in a housing slump in the 1970s, and the area was run down. This timeframe coincides with the downfall of the David Kennison legacy. On July 17, 1972, Chicago Daily News reported that "three bronze plaques had been torn from the granite boulder marking the burial spot." The boulder stood bare in the park for two and a half years. The original bronze tablet was replaced with an aluminum replica on December 19, 1974.

The Chicago History Museum's research center has an essay on file with the cataloged date 1973. The report, titled "David Kennison and the Chicago Sting," was written by Albert G. Overton. In this paper, Overton systematically discounts David Kennison's Chicago exploits by explaining, through various primary source documents, that he assumed other Kennison (and Kinnison) men's identities to tell his own story. In five written pages, followed by four pages of cited sources, Albert Overton presented information that historians accepted as the real David Kennison story. Early in the essay, after describing Kennison's funeral procession, Overton writes:

"Muffled drums beat a slow march for this magnificent parade was a funeral cortege to honor a well-known Revolutionary War hero. Actually, they were escorting the mortal remains of one of the most colorful imposters ever to take the City of Chicago."

After listing the battles in which Kennison asserted to have been a participant and citing another Kennison claim, Overton writes:

"Apparently, no one ever questioned his ability to attend the surrender in Yorktown, while at the same time, he was a captive of the Indians in upper New York State."

The charm of his story has endured over 123 years. His claims have never been challenged in all the articles about him, and only a few have suggested he might have bent the truth a little.

Overton then breaks down David Kennison's likely age and military history, citing many National Archives documents, including pension files, census records dating back to the first census of 1790, and Bounty Land files.

Albert Overton acknowledged that David Kennison spelled his family name Kinnison and traces the authenticity of his signature by the distinctively written "K." Overton chooses to refer to Kennison through the Kennison spelling as it had been the accepted name in which the man had been known. After listing dates, supposed ages, and summarizing mathematically, Overton concludes:

"He was about 7 years old at the time of the tea party, saw no Revolutionary War service, and was about 85 years old, not 115 when he died."

Overton continues his paper, parsing through the Kennison family genealogy. Acknowledging that although Kennison may have had four wives, he found documentary evidence for only four children. Of those four, only a daughter, Sarah B. Johnson, had specific documentation. The Overton paper concludes:

"Hopefully, this publication will sometime assist those who may be David Kennison's true descendants, be used as an example of what can be found through proper research efforts, and amuse those who will appreciate the humor of the little old man who conned his way into history and stung Chicago for a most valuable piece of real estate as his final resting place."

CONCLUSION

These stories, and more, have accompanied Kennison's legacy, which was intact for more than one hundred years.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Emma C. Kennett was a female architect and real estate developer in Chicago. (1885-1960)

Between 1910 and 1920, there was an apartment building boom in the Rogers Park Community of Chicago. Many of the spacious apartments in buildings on Sheridan Road and Estes, Greenleaf, and Lunt Avenues were built at that time. Some had two bedrooms, many had three bedrooms, and some even had three baths.

Emma Kennett was born in Chicago in 1885. She worked in a builder's office before marrying James Kennett, a Chicago building contractor. She reentered the building profession when the marriage ended to support her young family. She founded the Kennett Construction Company in 1923 and began developing apartment buildings in Rogers Park.

Kennett was the active head of the Kennett Construction Company of Chicago, who, with a Black partner, Joseph Frederick Rousseau, built more than 80 buildings in the Howard-Jarvis-Ridge areas of Chicago's Rogers Park community. She designed the buildings in Gothic, French, and Spanish styles. By the mid-1920s, she was worth five million dollars ($89 million today).

Kennett designed and built apartment buildings, townhouses, and commercial properties. She was known for her innovative designs and her commitment to quality construction. 

FIRM HISTORY

Kennett Construction Company, 1923-1952 

Kennett Realty Company, 1952-1960. 

Kennett's buildings were known for their eclectic architectural styles, which reflected the popular trends of the time. She used Tudor Revival, Italian Renaissance Revival, and Spanish Mission Revival styles, among others. She also paid attention to the details of her buildings, using high-quality materials and finishes.

Normandy Apartments, 2300 West Farwell Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 1920s.

Kennett was a successful businesswoman and a pioneer for women in the construction industry. She was featured in several articles in the Chicago Tribune, which noted her success as a woman in a male-dominated field. She was also a member of the Chicago chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

2320-22 West Farwell Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 1928.

Kennett continued to develop buildings in Chicago until the early 1950s. She died in 1960 at the age of 75. Her legacy is one of innovation, quality, and perseverance. She was a role model for women in the construction industry, and her work helped to shape the city of Chicago.

2326 West Farwell Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 1920s.

Most of Kennett's buildings still stand today and are a testament to her talent and vision. Kennett designed all her buildings, assisted only by local architects, including Arthur C. Buckett and Herbert J. Richter, to ensure the correct technical details. 

A PARTIAL LIST OF KENNETT PROJECTS:

• 1141 West Devon Avenue, Sun Parlor Apartments, Chicago, Illinois
• 2020 West Jarvis, Chicago, Illinois
• 2029 West Jarvis, Chicago, Illinois
• 2114 West Arthur Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 2300 West  Farwell (Normandy apartments), Chicago, Illinois
• 2308-10 West  Farwell, Chicago, Illinois
• 2314-2316 West Farwell, Chicago, Illinois
• 2320-22 West Farwell, Chicago, Illinois
• 2326 West  Farwell, Chicago, Illinois
• 2332-2334 West  Farwell, Chicago, Illinois
• 6644 North Artesian Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7339 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7349 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7351 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7352 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois - razed
• 7354 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7355 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7356-58 North Robey (Damen Avenue today), Chicago, Illinois
• 7358 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7359 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7360 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7360-62 North Robey (Damen Avenue today), Chicago, Illinois
• 7361-7363 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7440-42 North Hoyne Avenue, (Chateau Le Mans), Chicago, Illinois
• 7441-43 North Navarre Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 7446-48 North Hoyne Avenue, (Maison Louviers), Chicago, Illinois
• 7447-49 North Hoyne Avenue, (Barcelona apartments), Chicago, Illinois
• 7452-54 North Hoyne Avenue, (Chateau Beauvais), Chicago, Illinois
• 7453-55 North Hoyne Avenue, (Valencia apartments), Chicago, Illinois
• 7536 North Seeley Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
• 1065 Estate Lane, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 1070 Estate Lane, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 1111 Estate Lane, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 1144 Estate Lane, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 1221 Estate Lane, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 136 Custer Avenue, Evanston, Illinois
• 1416 Fairway Drive, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 1433 Fairway Drive, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 810 S. Ridge Road, Lake Forest, Illinois
• 960 S. Ridge Road, Lake Forest, Illinois

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.