Nelson Algren, a renowned writer, often enjoyed gatherings in the apartment where the author of this article grew up. These meetings were filled with conversations, smoke, and the sound of ice clinking against cocktail glasses. While Algren drank, he wasn’t known for the extreme enthusiasm for alcohol seen in some famous writers associated with drinking. Despite his significant literary contributions, his writing output wasn’t as substantial as it might have been.
Upcoming Chicago events have no direct link to Algren’s fondness for alcohol. Instead, they highlight his appreciation for taverns and their patrons. In the past, taverns were central to neighborhoods, serving as sanctuaries. Algren articulated this well, saying, “Between (streetcar) stops stretch the streets where the shadow of the tavern and the shadow of the church form a dark and double-walled dead end.” Since leaving Chicago in 1975 and passing away in 1981, Algren lives on in books, movies, a museum, writings about him, and various events.
Journalist Mary Wisniewski, author of the biography “Algren: A Life,” offered insights into Algren’s relationship with alcohol, stating, “Few of Algren’s friends thought that he was an alcoholic, though he did sometimes drink too much. There was more of a culture of drinking among writers and artists in the mid-20th century than there is now. Some of his attraction to bars was just loneliness — he wanted to be out with other people, where things were happening. It was more fun to be drinking in a Chicago tavern with friends than alone with his typewriter, especially as his work became harder to sell.”
To celebrate the 75th anniversary of Algren’s work “Chicago: City on the Make,” two enthusiasts, Bill Savage and Paul Durica, organized a weekend of tavern hopping. Durica, director of exhibitions at the Chicago History Museum, and Savage, a Northwestern University professor focused on Chicago history and literature, aim to keep Algren’s legacy alive. Durica mentioned, “I think we came up with this idea over beers at Miller’s Pub. We both believe that there is a continued relevance to the book. And this event is yet another way to make sure Algren is remembered.”
Attendees will hear readings from “City” and gain historical insights at each tavern stop. Savage noted the similarities between Algren’s work and Sandburg’s poem “Chicago.” Despite being dated, their pieces captured enduring elements, like the city of “the hustler and the square.” Tickets for the event are affordable, ranging from $5 to $20, with a cash bar available.
The weekend kicks off at 7 p.m. on Friday at Bernice’s Tavern, 3238 S. Halsted St., a neighborhood staple. Algren spent his childhood on the South Side and admired the White Sox, using the team’s 1919 Black Sox scandal as a lens for corruption in “City.” On Saturday, events move to the Old Town Ale House, 209 W. North Ave., with a 1 p.m. start. Roger Ebert once called it “the best bar in the world that I know about.” The tavern is adorned with Bruce Elliott’s dynamic paintings, including a notable Algren portrait.
Sunday’s finale at 5 p.m. occurs at Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., the largest venue with a stage for multiple readings. Participants include journalist Lester Munson, beer historian Liz Garibay, teacher Tim Tuten, poet Gregorio Gomez Aguayo, writer Dmitry Samarov, and radio host Mario Smith. A limited edition poster by Ethan D’Ercole will be available for purchase.
During the tour, attendees will learn about Algren’s past residence near Wabansia Ave., where he wooed French writer Simone de Beauvoir. Although the building he lived in was removed for the Kennedy Expressway, Savage will display the Holiday magazine featuring sections of “City” and other items from his Algren collection.
Some enthusiasts plan to attend all three days, while others will join for a night. The celebrations extend to Nelson Algren Museum of Miller Beach in Indiana next Saturday, marking the 25th anniversary of the 50th anniversary edition of “City.” The edition was annotated by teacher David Schmittgens and Savage. The museum event involves board members Dick Bales and Wisniewski.
A noteworthy addition to the tavern tour is a special beer range inspired by “City on the Make,” produced by local brewery Hop Butcher for the World. Enjoy the festivities!