Do you have an unconventional hobby? Something that fascinates you but makes others scratch their heads? For Will Quam, that passion comes in a size 194 × 92 × 57 mm and chances are you encounter thousands of them every single day. If the title didn’t give it away, I’m talking about the common brick. Will is bringing his brick knowledge to the Aurora Public Library District Tuesday, Oct. 28. Learn about this often-overlooked cornerstone of Chicago architecture that will make you see the buildings around you in a whole new way.
It was more than 150 years ago that the Great Chicago Fire destroyed more than 17,000 buildings, leaving 300 dead and 100,000 homeless. In order to rebuild the city safely, people began using clay along the river to create bricks. These historic bricks have a story to tell. “You can expect to learn about brick architecture in Chicago, with some bits of Aurora architecture thrown in as well,” said library assistant Ethan M. “I’m looking forward to learning about this aspect of history that I’d never considered before!”
When I asked Ethan what sparked the idea of offering a program on bricks, he replied “I’m always looking for topics that fly under most people’s radars. These kinds of niche programs can inspire people to take up new hobbies or appreciate the world around them in a new light.” For our presenter, that is precisely what it’s all about.
On his website, Will Quam said, “…nothing is boring. Everything can be interesting and exciting. Even bricks.” As an architectural photographer, writer, and researcher, he doesn’t just see brick as something that holds up a building—it’s a living record. Each one carries its own texture, color, and story, whether it’s part of a fancy facade or a weathered alley. Through his popular walking tours (voted one of Chicago’s best tours by Curbed and the Chicago Reader), he encourages people to open their eyes to the details around them.
Unconventional hobbies remind us that fascination can be found anywhere. Something as simple as a brick can tell a story if you’re willing to stop and listen! Join us at the Santori Library Tuesday, Oct. 28 for this engaging program that celebrates Chicago’s architectural heritage and the humble material that made it possible. For more information, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/14430864 or contact the library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.