Historic Apartments
Three recreated apartments at the heart of the National Public Housing Museum showcase the stories of diverse families who lived in the Jane Addams Homes.
Taylor Street
Window Installations
As you walk down Taylor Street, you will meet one of our founders, Commissioner Deverra Beverly, and learn about the changing neighborhood through the stories of past residents. These exhibits are accessible from the outside of the museum, even when the building is closed.
Installation
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Along Taylor Street at the National Public Housing Museum
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Taylor Street Audio Exhibition
The shape of this Near West Side neighborhood has undergone significant demographic, economic, and cultural shifts through the years. Look out on Taylor Street as you listen to an excerpt of a conversation between two former Jane Addams Homes residents who reflect on their memories of the neighborhood, and the stark differences between them.
Voice 1: Allen Schwartz, Jane Addams resident: 1943–1954
Voice 2: Janetta Sue Pegues, Jane Addams and ABLA resident: 1962–1983. Hear Janetta’s full-length, solo interview here.
Commissioner Deverra Beverly Window
Amidst the demolition of the Jane Addams Homes, longtime ABLA resident, Commissioner Deverra Beverly came together with her community to save one building. They dreamed of making a museum to tell the important stories of public housing. Learn more about this formidable leader through one of her most precious objects.
More exhibitions
History Lessons
History Lessons offers intimate glimpses of life in public housing through everyday objects and personal memories.
Living in the Shade
Explore the role of open space—large lawns and tenant gardens, paved paths and play spaces, shady seating areas and public art—in creating more livable, healthy, and thriving communities.
Exhibition Resources
Additional resources available at the front desk.