Chicago Public Library

Archiving letters like the examples pictured here — an envelope from the 1960s sent by civil rights activist Timuel Black Jr. and an account from the 1930s documenting life in Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood — is a key way Chicago Public Library preserves Chicago’s history. Letters like these connect Chicagoans with their past, and now, you can be a part of Chicago’s future.

CPL invites Chicagoans to write Letters to America sharing reflections, hopes and stories rooted in Chicago experiences. This citywide initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States and creates space for civic reflection and storytelling.

Learn how to participate: chi.gov/letterstoamerica

Photo sources:

1) Envelope used for a letter from Timuel Black Jr. to Ermetra Black, July 30, 1964, Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection of Afro-American History and Literature, Chicago Public Library.

2) Letter from Mrs. Fannie Young to CPL librarian Helen Zatterberg, circa 1930s, Northside Neighborhood History Collection, Chicago Public Library.