The conflagration that tore through Chicago in October 1871 is often credited with rewriting our city’s history. Like most everything from that era, the Great Fire’s aftermath was an opportunity for those on the make. But was it really so clear-cut?
In this special 90-minute virtual event, we’ve assembled a broad panel of historians to answer your every question about the true impact of the Great Chicago Fire and the popular myths that continue to drive the city’s sense of self. We will consider a mix of stories examining the development, spread, and impact of images from the Fire; the real derivation of the many building safety improvements we often attribute as responses to the Fire; the displacement of populations of color, predominantly Black Chicagoans, after the Fire and its eventual role in Chicago's Great Migration; and the events following the Fire that helped build citizens' pride of place.
Tickets are $25 for non-members, $17 for CAC members, free for students
Visit the Website of How the Great Fire Changed Chicago (opens in new window)
Event Date
Location
Virtual