Country’s First Museum Dedicated to American Writers to Open in Chicago

The country’s first and only museum dedicated to past and present American authors will join the many outstanding museums operating in Chicago’s Millennium Park.

The American Writers Museum (AWM) will showcase American writers and their influence on the country’s history, identity and culture. The interactive, high-tech museum will showcase the personal stories and literary works of American authors, poets and playwrights, from Mark Twain to Dr. Seuss. Themed galleries, interactive exhibits, educational programs and special events will include Writers Hall, where visitors will accompany roving writers such as Jack Kerouac and John Steinbeck on their literary travels. Guests will also be able to “visit” writers’ homes and fictional sites, including the “House of Seven Gables” and “Gone With the Winds'” Tara in Nation of Writers. Readers Hall will host talks, readings and films, while exhibits like Word Play, Mind of a Writer and A Writer’s Room will invite visitor creativity with immersive offerings and games.

“The American Writers Museum will become a beloved attraction for Chicago residents and visitors from all over the world, and will provide an exciting and unprecedented opportunity to showcase true Americana in one of the nation’s most culturally rich cities,” says AWM Founder and President, Malcolm E. O’Hagan.

–Lissa Poirot