The Enduring Legacy of Chicago’s South Side

Coordinator: Branda Ward

Email: Brenda.ward@platomadison.org

Registration: Required, Register Online

With the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, it’s time to visit the rich history of Chicago’s South Side. We can’t cover it all – the South Side encompasses 100 square miles and 30 neighborhoods with a history that transformed America’s industries and enriched our nation’s arts and culture. We’ll start at Prairie Avenue, home of gilded age titans including Phillip Armour and George Pullman. We’ll discuss the wave of immigrants who made Chicago hog butcher to the world and how the residents of Pullman advanced worker and civil rights. We’ll visit Bronzeville, once the Harlem of the Midwest, and home to gospel greats, the blues, and Chess Studio. We’ll talk about how massive public housing projects transformed the South Side and the heroes who bring South Siders hope and pride.

Additional Information

Meeting Day: Friday

No Class Date: October 2

Meeting Location: Virtual – Google Meet

Participation: Reading and discussion expected

Class Size: No Limit