The University of Chicago campus is known for its distinct, historical architecture—much of it in the Neo-Gothic style—from Cobb Hall to Hutchinson Commons to Ryerson Library, and many more. But who are the people behind our most iconic buildings?
You can learn all about that history with a free tour—which you can access on your smartphone as a walking tour while on campus or participate in virtually, no matter where you are—detailing the origin of a few of the University’s most treasured buildings, plus information about their namesakes and philanthropists.
Chicago Studies and Alumni Relations & Development teamed up last spring with Dean of the College, John W. Boyer, to create this virtual “Campus Philanthropy Tour.” Narrated by Boyer and researched by him as well as students and staff, the tour walks participants through the history of the people whose generosity built the University of Chicago —building by building!—starting in 1890. The tour, which includes videos featuring Boyer, is available on the free Vamonde application or via its web browser. Full transcripts of each video are also available.
Thirteen buildings are part of the tour: Harper Memorial Library, Rosenwald Hall, Swift Hall, Cobb Hall, Ryerson Library, Levi Hall, the Social Sciences Research Building, Hutchinson Commons, Mandel Hall, Regenstein Library, Stagg Field, Henry Crown Field House and Rockefeller Memorial Chapel.
Want to meet Dean Boyer? Join Chicago Studies in-person on Oct. 1 outside the Urban Lounge (1155 E. 60th St.) for the group’s Chicago Friday event, where Boyer and Prof. John Mark Hansen, who will help lead the annual South Side History Bike Tour on Oct. 2, will be on hand to sign copies of their respective books on Chicago history: University of Chicago: A History, and The City in a Garden. Copies of the book will also be available to purchase.
Chicago Studies offers curricular and co-curricular opportunities for College students to discover, study, and engage with the diverse communities of our city.