{"product_id":"oldest-chicago-9781681062563","title":"Oldest Chicago","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOldest Chicago: A Comprehensive Guide to the Windy City's Historic Legacy\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOldest Chicago by David Anthony Witter serves as an authoritative guidebook to the city's most enduring landmarks and cultural treasures. This comprehensive reference documents the buildings, neighborhoods, restaurants, businesses, and bars that have shaped Chicago's identity over generations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat's Inside This Historic Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe book provides detailed coverage of Chicago's architectural heritage and the stories behind the city's most iconic structures. Readers gain access to carefully researched information about historic sites across the Windy City, from its oldest commercial establishments to its most significant architectural achievements. Each entry brings the walls of these buildings to life through historical context and cultural significance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout Author David Anthony Witter\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Anthony Witter brings over thirty years of experience documenting Chicago's history and neighborhoods to this guidebook. As an author, journalist, teacher, lecturer, and historian, his work has appeared in The Chicago Reader, New City, The Chicago Tribune, The Washington Post, Living Blues, The Copley News Syndicate, and numerous other publications. His other books include Chicago Magic: A History of Stagecraft and Spectacle and Be-Bop, Swing and Bella Musica. Witter's deep connection to Chicago extends beyond research—he has performed blues music at local venues, adding a personal dimension to his historical expertise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis guidebook appeals to Chicago residents seeking to deepen their knowledge of their city, history enthusiasts interested in urban development and architectural preservation, tourists planning visits to historic Chicago landmarks, and anyone fascinated by the stories behind America's great cities. The handy format makes it practical for both reference use and field exploration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePublished by Reedy Press in May 2020, this paperback edition organizes Chicago's historic sites in an accessible format. The guide covers multiple aspects of the city's heritage, including its business history, demographic development, and urban evolution. Witter's journalistic background ensures that each entry combines factual accuracy with engaging narrative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're walking through Chicago neighborhoods, planning a heritage tour, or simply curious about the buildings you pass daily, Oldest Chicago provides the historical context that transforms ordinary structures into meaningful landmarks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Author\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eWitter, David:\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e - An author, journalist, teacher, lecturer, and historian, David Anthony Witter has been documenting Chicago's history and neighborhoods for over thirty years. His books include Oldest Chicago; Chicago Magic, A History of Stagecraft and Spectacle; and Be-Bop, Swing and Bella Musica. His historical articles and photographs have appeared in The Chicago Reader, New City, The Chicago Tribune, The Washington Post, Living Blues, The Copley News Syndicate, and many other publications. Witter has also added to his feel and appreciation for Chicago's history and culture through playing blues at local venues.","brand":"Reedy Press","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50493605085458,"sku":"9781681062563","price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0831\/4771\/8930\/files\/img_ea91e5ac-6b5d-449d-a52f-9b51728532df.jpg?v=1730654308","url":"https:\/\/surprise-castle.myshopify.com\/products\/oldest-chicago-9781681062563","provider":"Surprise Castle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}