Chicago Stories

See how Marshall Field's plans and puts together its holiday windows, and learn the history of the beloved Christmastime tradition.

Just a few decades ago, Chicago was tearing down its architectural landmarks with a vengeance. Among these were the work of legendary architect Louis Sullivan, and no one, it seemed, felt it was important to document and preserve them. No one, that is, except photographer Richard Nickel. This idealistic crusader's passion to save Chicago's architectural treasures consumed his life and ultimately caused his untimely death.

John Callaway narrates the story of "Francis O'Neill: The Police Chief Who Saved Irish Music," a turn-of-the-century Renaissance man and the wide-reaching effects of his life's work. Watch the 2002 video from our archives.

WTTW's Chicago Stories looks back at the World's Fair that celebrated a "Century of Progress" in Chicago in an episode from 2000.

WTTW's John Callaway hosts a Chicago Story about Riverview, the Chicago amusement park that from 1904-1967 delighted people with rides such as the Bobs roller coaster, Aladdin's Castle, a tunnel of love, and parachutes, all in the city at Western and Belmont.