About this Event
*The Metropolitan Planning Council is generously hosting us for this session. In order to access the building, RSVP is required no later than the morning of Thursday, October 8th. You can RSVP through eventbrite or by emailing [email protected]*
This ongoing series brings together professional city builders to discuss Chicago-centric books that explore the city’s urban, political, social, and physical landscape. This month, we’re getting into our niche anniversary era! We'll be meeting 155 years after the day the Chicago Fire began.
We'll be reading The Burning of the World: The Great Chicago Fire and the War for a City's Soul , in which Scott W. Berg tells the story of the 1871 Great Chicago Fire and the transformation that followed. With vivid, character-driven storytelling, Berg traces the conflicts between public and private interests that continue to inform Chicago's political order today.
We’ll gather for lively conversation, snacks, and civic camaraderie with fellow planners, designers, policymakers, advocates, builders, researchers, and curious Chicagoans.
Who should attend
This event is for people who care about Chicago and the forces that shape it, including planners, designers, policymakers, advocates, developers, transportation professionals, architects, civic leaders, students, and curious city lovers.
No formal expertise required — just read what you can and come ready for a thoughtful, spirited conversation.
Hosts
Sophie Blumenstein, Planner, Journey, [email protected]
Lauren Mattern, Founder & TDM Lead, Journey, [email protected]
Thomas Bamonte, Senior Advisor, Metropolitan Planning Council
Event venue & nearby stays
Metropolitan Planning Council, 140 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, United States
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