Brick City: Why Chicago is Basically a Lego Land for Adults
Chicago. The Windy City. The Second City. The City of Broad Shoulders. And, as it turns out, the City of Bricks. Ever wondered why the Windy City looks like a giant Lego set gone wild? Let’s dive into the brick-tastic history of our favorite Midwestern metropolis.
A Fiery Beginning
So, you’re probably thinking, "Bricks? Really? That's the best you've got?" Well, buckle up, because this story is as dramatic as a Chicago winter. It all started with a big, fiery whoopsie. In 1871, a great fire swept through Chicago, leaving a city in ashes. Literally. It was like a real-life version of "The Day After Tomorrow," but with less global warming and more rebuilding.
Brick by Brick
After the flames died down, Chicagoans were faced with a daunting task: rebuilding their city from scratch. But they weren't about to go back to wooden structures. Nope, they wanted something more... fireproof. Enter the humble brick. It was cheap, readily available, and, most importantly, wouldn't go up in flames like a tinderbox.
So, the city went on a brick-laying binge. Bricks were stacked higher than a deep-dish pizza, and soon, Chicago was transforming into a reddish-brown metropolis. It was like a giant, urban Lego project, but with less imagination and more practicality.
The Brick That Built Chicago
The bricks used to construct Chicago's skyline were no ordinary bricks. They were Chicago Common bricks. These bricks were made from local clay, giving them a unique, earthy color and a slightly rough texture. Kind of like the city itself - tough, resilient, and full of character.
Today, these bricks are a beloved part of Chicago's architectural heritage. People love the way they give the city its distinctive look. And some folks are even obsessed with collecting them. Seriously, there are people who have entire walls dedicated to Chicago Common bricks. It's a thing.
Brick by Brick: A Lasting Legacy
So, the next time you're strolling through Chicago and admiring its impressive skyline, remember that those towering buildings are really just a bunch of old bricks stacked on top of each other. It's a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. And it's also a pretty good excuse to eat some deep-dish pizza.
How to... Brick-Related FAQs
- How to appreciate Chicago's brick architecture: Simply look up! Every building tells a story.
- How to spot a Chicago Common brick: Look for a slightly rough, earthy-colored brick.
- How to incorporate brick into your home decor: Consider exposed brick walls, or use brick-inspired accents.
- How to build a brick wall: Hire a professional. Or, you know, watch a YouTube tutorial.
- How to make the most of Chicago's brick-filled landscape: Explore different neighborhoods and admire the variety of brick styles.
