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Chicago’s Golden Age of Department Stores

July 17, 2019 - Addolorata Villa

Old black and white photo of Chicago in 20s

The Addolorata Villa in Wheeling, part of the Franciscan Communities, will be hosting the Summer of Learning 2019 LifeLong Learning Institute program, “Chicago’s Golden Age of Department Stores,” presented in partnership with Harper College, on Wednesday, July 17, from 1:00 p.m. to 2 p.m. This is one of many enriching and entertaining educational opportunities available to Addolorata Villa residents and all local adults ages 55 and older.

For decades, Chicago was home to some of the nation’s grandest department stores. Clustered mostly along a mile-long stretch of State Street, stores like Marshall Field’s, Carson, Pirie, Scott, Sears, Wieboldt’s and Goldblatt’s set new standards for retail innovation, customer services and visual display. Generations of Chicagoans trekked to these stores for holiday shopping, celebrations and fun. This nostalgic lecture uses photographs and memorabilia to revisit Chicago’s fabulous retail emporiums and explore their rise and fall.

With no required educational background, homework, or grades, the Lifelong Learning Institute provides great discussions, new friendships, and the joy of learning among peers. To secure your spot in this free program, RSVP online or with Liz Starman at (847) 808-4421. Seating is limited.