Peeking out from behind the trees, Haymarket House stands as a testament to Chicago’s vibrant culture. It embodies the spirit of community. Welcome to Haymarket House. It is more than just a building. It is a physical embodiment of Haymarket Books’ deep roots. It reflects their critical role in Chicago’s culture of resistance.
Haymarket House is located in the heart of Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. Uptown has a dynamic history of working for liberation. This includes Indigenous, Black, gender, immigrant, LGBTQ+, and working-class liberation. Haymarket House builds upon this history.
Haymarket Books moved into Haymarket House. This happened in 2022. It provides space for community events and their publishing offices. Haymarket House serves as a hub. Authors, activists, and community members come together. They participate in readings, events, and workshops. They engage in political conversations. They learn collectively.
Before becoming Haymarket House, this building had a long history. Built in 1917 by the Doer Brothers Architects, it was a mansion. The home fell on hard times during the Great Depression. In the 1930s, it was converted into a boarding house. Later, in the 1940s, a private school acquired it. It functioned as a school until the mid-2010s.
The building was rezoned from residential. It had not been maintained for many years. The design team worked to preserve original details. They also modernized the building. They adapted it for office and community use.
A significant renovation created a community room. This room serves as a lecture hall and gathering space. It can accommodate up to 200 people. A structural masonry wall was removed. A steel beam replaced it. This created a 1,200 square foot space filled with natural light. It includes the original fireplace and a new retractable movie screen.
Haymarket House hosts political, cultural, literary, and community events. These events take place in event spaces, the kitchen, library, and garden. The organization is committed to uplifting writers, artists, thinkers, activists, and educators. They support those who struggle for a better world.
Haymarket House believes in cultural transformation. It requires both literary and political imagination. They believe success relies on integrating culture, politics, and community. Haymarket House offers a gathering place. It welcomes artists, writers, activists, scholars, and everyday folks. All are welcome if they want to change the city and the world.
Since opening, Haymarket House has held over 150 events. These include celebrations and gatherings. They also host organizing retreats and community meetings. Book launches, discussion groups, and educational programming also take place here. You might find trainings, poetry readings, used book fairs, or art exhibitions.
Haymarket House relies on community support. People can become monthly or annual sustainers. Different levels of support are available. These include Monthly Sustainer, Monthly Solidarity Sustainer, Annual Sustainer, and Co-Conspirator. Supporters help sustain Haymarket House. They ensure it remains a vibrant and independent home for culture, politics, and community.
Haymarket House stands as a beacon. It shines for those seeking social and economic justice. It is a place where great ideas find a great home. As you leave Haymarket House, consider how you can contribute to building a better world. Remember that even small actions can create significant change.