Chicago's Greatest Buildings

Back by popular demand, we’re pleased to announce author Ellen Shubart will be returning to the History Center on Thursday, November 13 to discuss her newest book, “Chicago’s Greatest Buildings!” Copies of Ellen's new book are now available for pre-purchase. Extra copies will be on sale on November 13.

As the home to many innovative architects and builders, Chicago boasts buildings that over the years have been the tallest in the world, the largest as measured in square footage, or the most beautiful due to their decorative ornamentation. These buildings—some easily recognizable and others hidden gems—epitomize varied styles, from the early Chicago commercial office buildings to today’s contemporary skyscrapers. However, they are all architecturally significant. Together, these buildings illustrate the glory of Chicago’s skyline in its iterations for more than 150 years.

A lifelong Chicagoan, Ellen Shubart has worked as a teacher, journalist, and ended her career as a sustainable city planning advocate. As a historian by training, with masters degrees in U.S. history and historic preservation, Ellen has written multiple books with Reedy Press, including What’s With Chicago?, Chicago: An Illustrated Timeline, and Secret North Shore-Chicago. Ellen is now a volunteer docent at the Chicago Architecture Center, where she leads walking, bus, and river cruise tours.