Despite the lack of spring weather, Chicago May events are plentiful. We picked our favorites, as we do every week, in architecture and history. This week we bring you a closer look at the Chicago River, a discussion of influential women in the Prairie School, and a Studs Terkel themed tour of the Chicago Loop.

1. Chicago’s River: At Work And At Play – NEW BOOK TALK

224 S. Michigan Ave., Lecture Hall – Wednesday, May 7th, 12:15pm-1:00pm

FREE

Learn about all things Chicago River at this afternoon talk with Neal Samors and Steven Dahlman, co-authors of Chicago’s River At Work And At Play. The book discussion will include photographs and descriptions of the amazing architecture seen along the riverfront as well as cover the early history of the Chicago River and future projects such as the expansion of the Riverwalk. This is part of the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s Lunch Talk series so be sure to brown bag it on Wednesday.

2. Influences on Frank Lloyd Wright: Blanch Ostertag and Marion Mahony – LECTURE

Unity Temple, 875 Lake St., Oak Park – Thursday, May 8th, 6:30pm-7:30pm

$10 general public/FREE to members – reservations required

Wilbert R. Hasbrouck, an architectural historian and retired architect and designer, will discuss the influence of the women who worked alongside Frank Lloyd Wright and other architects within the Prairie School. Blanche Ostertag and Marion Mahony, both of who Hasbrouck will focus his lecture, specifically contributed to the Prairie School aesthetic through presentation development and drawing technique.

3. Studs-rific Loop Interior Architecture Walking Tour – CULTURAL TOUR

Chase Tower, 10 S. Dearborn, southeast entrance – Friday, May 9th, 3:00pm-5:00pm

$26 – reservations required

In honor of celebrating Studs Terkel during the Let’s Get Working festival, Chicago Detours is offering a special edition of our regularly scheduled Loop Interior Architecture Walking Tour that is loaded with Studs videos and quotes. Explore downtown the way Studs might have shown it to you. Tour is limited!