Urban History Seminars
Our Urban History Seminars series features a scholarly presentation, typically about a work in progress, followed by lively discussion. The monthly series runs during the academic year (September to May), and most sessions take place virtually via Zoom. All sessions are free; we would greatly appreciate a donation to the Museum in any amount. Reservations are required.
Call for Proposals: 2024–25
We encourage expressions of interest—from historians early in their careers as well as more experienced scholars—who might wish to make a presentation during the 2024–25 academic year. We prefer that our speakers discuss work-in-progress rather than a book or article already in print. For more information and to express your interest, please email Peter T. Alter, CHM chief historian, at alter@chicagohistory.org
The Urban History Seminars have been generously underwritten by the Chicago History Museum since 1983.
Virtual Urban History Seminar | Andrew Hurley
Andrew Hurley, a professor of history at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, presents “Death, Despondency, and Hysteria in the American City: The All But Forgotten Heat Wave of 1936.”
Virtual Urban History Seminar | Gordon Mantler
Gordon Mantler, Executive Director, University Writing Program, and Associate Professor of Writing and of History, The George Washington University, presents “The Multiracial Promise: Coalition, Mayoral Politics, and the Legacy of Harold Washington.”
Urban History Seminar Committee
- Peter T. Alter, Chicago History Museum
- Lilia Fernández, University of Illinois Chicago
- D. Bradford Hunt, Loyola University Chicago
- Ann Durkin Keating, North Central College
- Audrey Womack, Chicago History Museum