The Jane Addams Hull House serves as a dynamic memorial to social reformer Jane Addams, who was the first American woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. It is also a memorial to her colleagues whose work changed the lives of immigrant neighbors as well as national and international public policy. The museum works to preserve and develop the original Hull House site for the continuation of this historic settlement, house vision, research, education, and social engagement. This museum is located in two of the original settlement houses, the Hull Home and the residents Dining Hall. The Dining Hall is a beautiful arts and crafts building that has welcomed the world’s most important thinkers, artists, and activists.
A tour of this house lasts from 1 to 2 hours, depending on which your group chooses. You can do a self-guided tour, a docent led tour, an architectural tour, a classic tour, or a unique gender and sexuality tour. The docent-led and classic tours will show you the many exhibitions about the history of Hull House, about the Dining Hall, and about the residents and neighbors of this area during the 19th century. They speak about immigrant life and feature popular murals and exhibits such as Into Body Into Wall, Redefining Democracy, and Look at it this Way. The museum has served as a redefining point in American democracy in the modern age, and has played a critical role in legislation and public policy. Your group will enjoy the many vibrant programs and opportunities to learn within!