Occasionally throughout 2021, The Bridge will print reminiscences from docents in their own words. These essays are taken from long-time docents and provided to the DAN 2021 committee. This memory is from Carole Cosimano, Docent Class of 1977.
Most everyone who’s been a CAF/CAC docent will say the best part is sharing details about Chicago’s remarkable history, its built environment, and its cultural advantages with visitors from all over the world.
However, the best part for me has been being part of something special from the very beginning—and then watching it grow over the years. When I moved back to Chicago in 1969, I was determined to explore a city I’d visited all my life but didn’t really know. I grew up in Northwest Indiana, so my knowledge of the city was confined to visiting relatives, driving through Beverly to see the holiday lights, and then into the neighborhoods—Bucktown and Tri-Taylor.
That year I started taking the walking tours I saw advertised in the newspaper – I think there were three or four of them at the time. Then in 1976, in honor of the Bicentennial Year, what was then the Chicago School of Architecture Foundation opened a tour center and sought applications for “tour guides.” I applied, was accepted, and received my “Big Button” in 1977.
For 38 years I learned and walked and talked Chicago and its neighborhoods. I was happily part of CAC’s development and expansion. I saw it achieve international influence. And during it all, I fell more and more in love with this tough, flawed, outrageous, and magnificent being called Chicago. I miss it terribly right now.
This 50 year celebration is a fantastic undertaking; docents deserve their own year! They ARE the Chicago Architecture Center, the Chicago Architecture Foundation, the Chicago School of Architecture Foundation, and whatever it may be called in the future. I will always be grateful that I have been part of this from the beginning. Indeed, we made no small plans!
Carol- so great to hear your story. You were my sponsor and your enthusiasm and support got me started on my almost 21 years as a docent. Thanks so much!
Unfortunately I don’t live in Chi any more, but n Florida. However, I love getting emails and other news about CAF/CAC…and am always happy to see or hear about docents I used to work with.
I talk about my 25 years with CAF often, and when I get the website it is difficult for me to believe to see all these new Highrisers…and I am sending my friends always to you, especially for the boat tour, which I did and loved. Hopefully, some day I’ll be coming back to Ch for a visit.
all the best to all of you, perhaps some will remember me.
Jutta Tragnitz
Ju***********@ou*****.com
Carole, you were an inspiration to so many. I looked up to you and learned so much. Thanks.
We stand on your shoulders – THANK YOU
Hi Carol…wonderful to see this, I was just thinking of you a few days ago. Your thoughts remind me of our early years together like all new docents with such enthusiasm at then CSAF/Chicago School of Architecture Foundation.
As Always, Bette
Fun memory!