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Great Chicago Writers: Jane Addams

It’s such a pleasure spotlighting legendary Chicagoans who have left a lasting impression on our local history and beyond, including the twentieth-century icon, Jane Addams.

Born in 1860 in Cedarville, IL into a prosperous family, Because Addams’ family allowed her to benefit from education from an early age, she was able to graduate from the Rockford Female Seminary. Later, Addams traveled to Europe, where she was introduced to London’s Toynbee Hall, a trailblazing settlement house that worked to address the causes and impacts of poverty in the city’s East End. Her visit to Toynbee Hall left a lasting impression, paving the way for her co-founding Hull House in Chicago in 1889 — one of the earliest settlement houses in the U.S. that has become the Jane Addams-Hull-House Museum at the University of Illinois-Chicago campus.

Hull House offered educational and social services to immigrants and Chicago’s underserved communities, positioning Addams as a leader of the Progressive Era. Her advocacy spanned a multitude of diverse causes: women’s rights, peace, public health, and broad-spectrum social reform. In recognition of her contributions, Addams was honored as the first American woman to receive the Nobel peace prize in 1931.

Jane Addams-Hull-House Museum. Photo: Sean Marshall

Her experiences at Hull House — and with the Progressive movement more broadly — set Addams on her trajectory as a gifted writer. Her writing career was already in full throttle in 1909 with the release of The Spirit of Youth and the City Streets, which shared Addams’ keen understanding of the unique needs of urban youth. She used the book to advocate for enhanced recreational spaces and deeper engagement for Chicago’s underserved young people, while illuminating the dire consequences of growing up in an environment where poverty and lack of access to a better quality of living prevail.

Having found an audience for her explorations of daily life in Chicago, Addams published Twenty Years at Hull-House in 1910, giving readers a look at life inside the settlement house and its impact on the community. 

Inside the Hull House. Photo: At Home in Chicago

The Long Road of Woman’s Memory, which Addams’ completed in 1916, is another exceptional factual account of her expansive impact on women’s rights in America. In it, she gracefully navigates the terrain of personal and collective memories to demonstrate their influence on women’s lived experiences and the larger tapestry of history.

Over the course of her career, Jane Addams authored 11 books and hundreds of essays, editorials, and columns. And more than a century later, the resonance of Addams’s literary contributions remains undeniably profound, echoing through time into our modern world. 

Keen on exploring Addams’ legacy further? Then enjoy a visit to the Jane Addams-Hull-House Museum. The hours of operation are 10:00am to 4:50pm, Tuesday to Friday, and on Sundays from 12:00 to 4:50pm. A suggested donation for admission is $5 per person (University of Illinois Chicago faculty, staff, and students are granted complimentary entry).

Visit the Shakespeare Garden at Northwestern University

With Optima’s passion for having nature within reach, it’s no wonder that we are drawn to sumptuous gardens in and around the communities where we build. Imagine our delight in discovering the Shakespeare Garden on the Northwestern University campus, with its rich mix of history and modernity.

Planted in 1917, the Shakespeare Garden has had its home on Northwestern’s Evanston campus for over a century. Emerging from the vision of The Garden Club of Evanston members, it was crafted both as a wartime gesture of solidarity with Britain and to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Shakespeare’s passing.

Measuring 70 by 100 feet, this garden sits just north of the Frank W. Howes Memorial Chapel, bordered by hawthorn hedges that create an intimate haven. As you enter, the garden reveals a curated collection of flora mentioned in Shakespeare’s works. From fragrant lavender and vibrant marigolds and daffodils in Winter’s Tale, to the rosemary and pansies in Hamlet.

Daffodils in the Shakespeare Garden. Photo: Trevor Duggins / North by Northwestern

Jens Jensen, the illustrious Danish-American landscape architect, brought this garden to life. Known for his influential works on Chicago’s West Side, including Garfield Park and Columbus Park, Jensen took inspiration from Sir Francis Bacon’s essays on gardens. On entering the Shakespeare Garden, you are greeted by two Hawthorn trees, symbolic bridges between the Prairie and the garden. These trees, along with the foundational hawthorns that germinated from French seeds, have stood the test of time, providing a consistent backdrop to this historic site.

Over the decades, the Shakespeare Garden has seen numerous enhancements. In 1929, an Elizabethan-style stone bench and a captivating fountain became part of this serene landscape. The fountain, a generous donation by architect Hubert Burnham, showcases a bronze relief of Shakespeare’s visage crafted by the French-American sculptor, Leon Hermant. Further augmentations followed, including the addition of a sundial in 1990 and later, a reshaping of the garden’s layout based on the recommendations of the English garden designer, John Brookes.

Hawthorn Trees in Shakespeare Garden. Photo: Wikipedia Commons

Brookes’ suggestions, which included moving the sundial to the garden’s center and adding antique brick edging, have given the garden a touch reminiscent of traditional English gardens. This shift also marked the garden’s evolution from a knot garden to a more fluid, perennial-focused design.

Northwestern’s Shakespeare Garden is not only a place for quiet reflection but also a venue for countless weddings, tours, and cherished moments. It’s entirely free and open to the public, but special tours and events may have to be scheduled.

Exploring the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

Located in Evanston, the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is a testament to the deeply entrenched histories and cultures of North American indigenous peoples. For Optima Verdana® and Optima Lakeview® residents, the museum is a treasure trove, making it an ideal destination for a weekend visit or a day of exploration.

At its core, the museum is a dedicated guardian of indigenous cultures, dedicated to preserving the stories, arts, and traditions of the diverse cultures that make up North America’s historical fabric. 

The museum boasts an impressive collection, with artifacts from the Paleo-Indian period to present day. This vast arc of time provides an educational experience for visitors of all ages. For children, it’s a unique opportunity to connect with rich histories through hands-on exhibits, such as the full-sized birchbark canoe in the Woodlands Gallery, that offer tactile experiences that make learning immersive and engaging. Meanwhile, adults can appreciate the deeper nuances and intricate details of indigenous artistry and traditions across various tribes and regions.

Birchbark canoe in the Woodlands Gallery. Photo: Central Street Evanston

As with all great museums, there’s joy and discovery in visiting often. Its collections, encompassing regions from the Woodlands to the Arctic, ensure there’s always something new to discover. whether you’re captivated by the beadwork designs of the Plains or the stone carvings from the Arctic.

The museum is a place to connect, understand, and appreciate a vital part of America’s heritage. With its mix of education, preservation, and continuous innovation, it stands out as a vital cultural destination for all. The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, is open Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm and Saturday from 10am-3pm. For ticket information, click here.

Highlights Near Optima Verdana®: Green Bay Trail

For Optima Verdana® residents who have a penchant for outdoor activities and scenic views, the Green Bay Trail is a must-visit. This 9-mile asphalt and crushed stone trail runs parallel with Chicago’s Metra commuter rail line and weaves through Kenilworth, Winnetka, and Highland Park. Flanked by eateries, shops, parks, and stunning residences, the trail offers a unique blend of nature and urban vibes for bikers and hikers alike!

What’s especially captivating about the Green Bay Trail is its heritage. It stands on what was once the route of the former Chicago, North Shore & Milwaukee electric railroad. Following its path, visitors are essentially retracing the steps of history from downtown Wilmette to Highland Park. Beyond being a route for history buffs, the Trail also provides families with even the youngest of riders a leisurely day out. 

While daily commuters use Green Bay Trail to reach Metra stations, tourists and locals frequent it for recreational purposes to access Starting from Wilmette, you might be immediately captivated by the pristine beachfront atmosphere, juxtaposed beautifully with bustling business districts. And if approaching Highland Park on an early summer evening, you might get a glimpse of the euphoric energy emanating from Ravinia®, one of the region’s most celebrated music venues.

Green Bay Trail. Photo Credit: Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

For those looking to extend the adventure, at the Braeside Metra Station, the trail offers a gateway to the Chicago Botanical Gardens via the North Branch Trail. And for those who conclude their journey at the St. John’s Avenue trailhead, they’ll find a slew of amenities like restrooms, playgrounds, and parks, courtesy of the adjacent rail line. 

Living at Optima Verdana® isn’t just about unrivaled luxury; it’s about experiencing the richness of the community and embracing the outdoors. So, dive deep into history, bask in nature, or simply hit the Green Bay Trail for an invigorating walk or relaxing ride. No matter the season, weather or time of day, new experiences await each and every time.

Exploring The Oak Park Conservatory

We’re always on the lookout for treasured locales to share with our residents, and today, we’ve struck botanical gold. Allow us to introduce you to the Oak Park Conservatory, a lush oasis that’s steeped in history and teeming with life.

Established in 1914, the Oak Park Conservatory has deep roots, beginning as a modest municipal greenhouse. Over the decades, it has grown both in size and reputation, securing its place as one of the premier historical conservatories in the U.S. What makes this conservatory genuinely enchanting, however, isn’t just its venerable age but the myriad plants in its diverse collection.

Step inside, and you’re immediately transported across varied climates. The Tropical Room surrounds you with the sights and sounds of a vibrant jungle, where banana trees graze the ceiling, and orchids display their intricate beauty. There’s also the Mediterranean Room, a warm escape filled with olive trees and fragrant herbs, evoking images of sunlit European coastlines. For those fascinated by resilient plant species, the Desert Room offers a captivating exploration of cacti and succulents, each telling tales of survival in some of the planet’s harshest terrains.

Oak Park Conservatory Map

But the Oak Park Conservatory is more than a visual treat. It’s a hub for education and inspiration. For those with green thumbs or even just a touch of plant curiosity, the conservatory hosts workshops and programs throughout the year, ensuring every visit offers something new and enlightening.

Conservation remains at the heart of the conservatory’s mission. Alongside showcasing the beauty of the plant kingdom, it’s dedicated to the preservation of endangered plant species. By emphasizing sustainable gardening practices, the conservatory underscores the vital relationship we share with our environment.

Desert Room. Photo: Park District of Oak Park

While the interior rooms captivate the senses, the conservatory’s outdoor demonstration gardens shouldn’t be overlooked. These plots are more than just pretty spaces; they serve as living examples of sustainable gardening practices, providing invaluable insights for enthusiasts and casual gardeners alike.

The Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory (FOPCON) plays an integral role in the conservatory’s success and vibrancy. This dedicated non-profit organization tirelessly supports the conservatory, championing its value through fundraising, education, and community programs. So, whether you’re a seasoned botanist, a gardening novice, or someone seeking a serene escape, the conservatory promises a journey of discovery. Embrace its rich history, marvel at the beauty of nature, and leave with a renewed appreciation for the botanical world.

Discover The National Museum of Mexican Art

We’re constantly on the hunt for cultural gems to introduce to residents in our communities, so it’s a pleasure to spotlight a cornerstone of Chicago’s vibrant art scene: The National Museum of Mexican Art (NMMA). Situated in the heart of the Pilsen neighborhood, this museum is a testament to the depth, diversity, and dynamism of Mexican culture.

Founded in 1982 by Carlos Tortolero, NMMA emerged from a vision to represent Mexican, Chicano, and Latino arts and culture. Today, it stands as a bridge between Mexico’s past and the evolving identity of Mexican-Americans in the contemporary U.S.

NMMA’s collection is awe-inspiring, boasting over 10,000 pieces spanning 3,000 years. From ancient artifacts to modern-day masterpieces, every corner of the museum narrates tales of creativity, resilience, and passion. Whether you’re captivated by traditional folk art, contemporary sculpture, intricate textiles, or evocative photography, there’s a narrative waiting for you.

Day of the Dead Exhibit at the National Museum of Mexican Art. Photo: Roxy Delgado

One of the standout exhibitions that has become an annual tradition, is the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) showcase. This inspired installation dives deep into the fascinating rituals associated with this revered celebration, presenting art that is reflective and celebratory.

The museum is not just about viewing art; it’s an immersive learning experience. With a host of educational programs, workshops, and guided tours, visitors are invited to explore the contexts, histories, and techniques behind the artworks.

“Somos Pilsen.” Photo Credit: Mateo Zapata

Beyond the art itself, the museum’s location in Pilsen, a neighborhood full of Mexican heritage, enriches the experience. The vibrant murals, local eateries, and community events complement a visit to the museum.

As we admire the modern wonders of Chicago, we also treasure the institutions that ground us in cultural richness. Embark on a journey to the National Museum of Mexican Art, and emerge with a renewed appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Mexican art and culture. Best of all, admission is always free. Visit Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Noble-Seymour-Crippen House – Chicago’s Oldest Existing Building

Optima® is always thrilled to illuminate the quiet corners that resonate with historical depth. One such gem, tucked away in the Norwood Park neighborhood, is the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House. More than a mere building, this house is a piece of Chicago’s history, a testament to its rich past and the dreams of its earliest settlers.

The Noble-Seymour-Crippen House, with roots tracing back to 1833, is not only older than the City of Chicago itself but also stands as its oldest existing house. Its age, however, isn’t the only characteristic that makes this house noteworthy. Every brick, beam, window and wall, tells a tale of the city’s journey and the individuals who crafted its narrative.

The residence, initially a modest one-story frame farmhouse, was the brainchild of settler and entrepreneur Mark Noble. However, as Chicago burgeoned, so did the house’s grandeur.

By 1868, Thomas Seymour, its new owner, and a prominent member of Chicago’s Board of Trade, transformed it into a sprawling two-story Victorian haven.

Margaret Crippen’s Bedroom. Photo: Norwood Park Historical Society

Yet, the true distinction of the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House lies in its ties to the city’s pioneers: Mark Noble, Thomas Seymour, and the later contributions of the Crippen family. Each influenced Chicago’s burgeoning tapestry. Their legacies, encapsulated within the house’s walls, serve as a living testament to their contributions.

The house, designated a Chicago Landmark in 1987, is the proud home of the Norwood Park Historical Society, where visitors can go on a historical odyssey through Chicago’s early epochs. Its woodwork, decorative elements, and aura transport you back in time, providing a tangible connection to the city’s origins.

For those who enjoy exploration, the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House isn’t merely a landmark; it serves as a journey, a step back in time during the city’s formative years. As we revel in the grand architectural marvels of today, places like this remind us of our city’s foundation. Next time you find yourself longing for a touch of historical elegance, visit the house, and immerse yourself in another page of Chicago’s vibrant story.

Wilmette Spotlight: Wilmette Historical Museum

We believe in grounding our cutting-edge architectural designs in the rich tapestry of history. Which is why we’re always eager to introduce our residents to landmarks that echo the past and cast their influence on modern design. One such treasure nestled in the heart of Wilmette and near Optima Verdana® is the Wilmette Historical Museum.

The Wilmette Historical Museum is more than a mere repository of artifacts and old photographs. It’s another page in the Wilmette village’s history, inviting its visitors to walk through time. Housed in a charming, vintage 1896 building, the museum itself stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of a bygone era. With its Victorian elegance juxtaposed against the modernity of Wilmette’s streetscape, the museum offers a tangible link between past and present.

Upon entering, you’re welcomed by a rich collection of exhibits, each meticulously curated as a panorama of Wilmette’s evolution. From its indigenous origins, through its growth spurred by the railroads, to its transformation into a modern suburb, the museum narrates tales that inspire admiration for those who shaped this beautiful village.

What sets the Wilmette Historical Museum apart is its unique perspective on architecture and urban planning. The exhibits delve into the minds of the architects, town planners, and everyday citizens who dreamed of a thriving, harmonious community. Through sketches, blueprints, and firsthand accounts, the museum provides a deep dive into the principles that influenced Wilmette’s development.

Wilmette Historical Museum Interior, Photo Credit to Wilmette Historical Museum

In the heart of it all is a lesson on balance. How a village, rich in heritage, managed to integrate modernity without sacrificing its soul. How town planners and architects worked in tandem, ensuring that each brick laid or tree planted resonated with Wilmette’s overarching vision.

For our residents with an appreciation for the deep roots from which our contemporary residences spring, a visit to the Wilmette Historical Museum promises a rewarding experience! They’re open Monday-Thursday and Sunday from 1pm-4:30pm.

Oz Park in Lincoln Park

At Optima®, we’re passionate about promoting locales that intertwine cultural richness with communal vibrancy. In the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood lies such a treasure: Oz Park, a space that weaves literature, community, and recreation into a single, captivating location.

Nestled amid tree-lined streets and elegant brownstones, Oz Park stands as an homage to Lyman Frank Baum, the creative genius behind “The Wizard of Oz.” Baum, who made Chicago his home in 1891, penned his iconic series here, gifting the world with tales of courage, heart, wisdom, and the magic of home. It’s only fitting that the Windy City pays tribute with a park that brings his enchanting world to life.

Tin Man at Oz Park, Photo: Eric Allix Rogers

As visitors walk through Oz Park, they’re greeted by lifelike bronze statues of the story’s beloved characters: the wide-eyed Dorothy with her loyal Toto, the Scarecrow with his quest for brains, the Tin Man seeking his heart, and the Cowardly Lion in search of courage. Installed between the late 1990s and early 2000s, these figures serve as timeless sentinels, sparking joy and nostalgia for both young visitors and those young at heart.

Yet, the history of Oz Park tells a story not just of literature, but of rejuvenation. In the 1960s, this area was earmarked for an urban renewal project. From an expanse that once bore witness to the ebbs and flows of urban change, sprouted a park that today serves as a refuge, a place for families to converge, for children to play, and for communities to celebrate together.

Dorothy’s Playlout, Photo: Chicago Playgrounds

Beyond the Wizarding statues, Oz Park offers “Dorothy’s Playlot” for the youngest adventurers, tennis courts for the sporty, a basketball court for the competitive, and vast open fields for any and everyone seeking leisure or recreation. The park not only offers these amenities but stands as a lively hub for a myriad of community activities ranging from movie nights to spirited gardening days.

For our residents, Oz Park presents an opportunity to experience a slice of literary history while enjoying the camaraderie of a close-knit community. The essence of Baum’s tales — the search for what’s truly valuable and the joy of discovering it’s been nearby all along — mirrors the experience of discovering this gem in Chicago. Through its unique blend of storybook charm and urban recreation, Oz Park epitomizes the very spirit of community and culture that we deeply cherish.

Yoko Ono’s – Skylanding

At Optima®, we celebrate the fusion of art, culture, and community as much as we cherish the design and aesthetics of our residences. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on a powerful symbol of peace, resilience, and cultural exchange that stands proudly in our home city – Skylanding, the first permanent public art installation in the Americas by the internationally acclaimed artist and peace activist, Yoko Ono.

Situated in the heart of the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park, Chicago, Skylanding is not only a remarkable work of art; it is a tribute to the spirit of harmony and renewal. Ono’s creation comprises twelve towering steel lotus petals that appear to have gracefully landed, or are just landing, on earth from the sky. The imagery of the petals, reaching between nine and twelve feet high, masterfully uses the symbolic meaning of the lotus – purity and rebirth – to convey a powerful message.

Skylanding is as rich in history as it is in symbolism. Its site is where the Phoenix Pavilion, a gift from Japan to Chicago during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, once stood. The pavilion, sadly lost to arson in 1946, left behind a vacant space that has been transformed into a beacon of hope and peace through Ono’s artwork. In her words, Skylanding is “a place where the sky and earth meet and create a seed to learn about the past and come together to create a future of peace and harmony, with nature and each other.”

Sky Landing by Yoko Ono, North Side of Wooded Island. Photo: Raed Mansour

The installation is not just a visual treat, but it also offers a unique multi-sensory experience. The towering petals are designed to capture the changes in sunlight, wind, and weather, creating an ever-evolving spectacle that mirrors the city’s vibrant spirit and resilience.

Skylanding is a reminder of the strength that lies in unity and the enduring power of peace. It invites us all to take a moment from our busy lives, stand beneath its impressive steel petals, and absorb its symphony of art, history, and culture it represents.

The next time you find yourself strolling through Jackson Park, we highly recommend taking the time to experience Skylanding. Its poignant story and the tranquil beauty is bound to leave you inspired and enriched!

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