Chicago Convenes: People Coming Together, Here and There

In Tommy Orange’s There There, a cast of individuals come together at the Big Oakland Powwow. Throughout Chicago’s past, thousands of unique events, such as world’s fairs, religious congresses, and political conventions have served as gathering places for people from around the United States and beyond to come together to share ideas, converse, learn, and have fun. Author and historian Max Grinnell will take visitors through Chicago’s two world’s fairs, the 1920 Republican Nominating Convention, and the 1926 Eucharistic Congress, along with coverage of fairly obscure gatherings, like the 1883 General Time Convention. Along the way, you will also learn about the ways in which a wide range of Native American groups were a seminal part of the World’s Columbian Exposition and major gatherings throughout Chicago’s history.

How to Attend

This event takes place in person. Masks are strongly encouraged in all CPL locations. Questions about visiting the library? Check out our Using the Library FAQs.

Accessibility
Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

This event is part of the 2023 One Book, One Chicago season, exploring the book There There by Tommy Orange.