The National Public Housing Museum in Chicago’s Near West Side has been recognized as one of the best new museums in the United States, ranking third on USA Today’s prestigious list. This accolade comes as the museum concludes its inaugural year, having opened its doors in April 2023. The museum, located at 919 South Ada Street, is situated in the last remaining building of the historic Jane Addams Homes, underscoring its commitment to preserving the stories of public housing in America.
The ranking placed the National Public Housing Museum behind the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, and the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum at Rowan University in Mantua, New Jersey. This recognition was determined by a panel of experts and editors, followed by a month-long public vote, highlighting the museum’s unique role in both education and community engagement.
Mission and Exhibitions Reflect Community History
Dedicated to advocating for the right to housing, the museum preserves the narratives of the approximately 10 million Americans who have lived in public housing over the past century. The museum’s origins trace back to the demolition crisis of the 1990s, when Deverra Beverly, the Housing Commissioner, collaborated with community residents to ensure their history would be honored and not forgotten.
At the heart of the museum’s offerings are its exhibitions that include “Historic Apartments,” which features three recreated homes that illustrate the lives of families from the Jane Addams Homes. Additional installations explore housing policies and showcase public art from the Works Progress Administration era. Visitors can take part in daily timed tours to gain deeper insights into the exhibitions. One highlight, “BREAKTHROUGH: Housing Futures,” has received considerable acclaim, earning a spot on Newcity’s “Design Top 5” list and being recognized as a top winter pick by the Chicago Tribune.
Engaging Community Programming
The museum’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond its exhibitions. On March 29, 2024, the National Public Housing Museum will host a special event featuring rapper MURS, in collaboration with the hip-hop community platform Groundwaves. This “intergenerational day party” promises to blend music, food, and hands-on activities, further enriching the museum’s connection with the community.
Open from Wednesday to Sunday, the National Public Housing Museum welcomes visitors from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. General admission is free, ensuring accessibility for all who wish to learn about the critical issues surrounding public housing. For more information about upcoming events and exhibitions, interested individuals can visit the museum’s official website.
This recognition by USA Today not only highlights the museum’s significance but also reflects a growing awareness of the importance of public housing narratives in understanding America’s social fabric.
