The most comprehensive book on the work of Prairie School architect John Van Bergen is available in a new and expanded edition. Find out how to get your copy after the jump...
Marty Hackl, author of this most complete catalog available of Van Bergen's work as well as a biography includes lots of photos and an addendum of previously undiscovered commissions as well as demolitions and changes since the 2001 publication. This addendum will be ready by January and will be included with books ordered after that time. However, if any books are ordered earlier, the addendum will forward to those people, after it is published, at no extra cost.
The cost is $50 dollars plus $10 dollars shipping. Books can be ordered by emailing the author at marty@martyhackl.net.
The book has been instrumental in saving many Van Bergen's from demolition, has been used for several national register nominations, is in the libraries of several historic preservation commissions, preservation groups and public libraries. Before the book was published Van Bergen was commonly referred to as a second rate architect with little or noting known about him or his architecture. Since its publication, several communities now list Van Bergen as an important contributor to the architecture in their communities and he is now recognized as an innovator and one of the leading and most talented Prairie School architects. He is also the only original of the Oak Park group to continue designing in the Prairie style until his death in 1967.
BTW, the Schwefer House (the last extant Prairie School home by Van Bergen and by any Prairie School architect) is in imminent danger of being demolished unless a buyer can be found. Read about it here and contact marty@martyhackl.net if interested.
Photos copyright Marty Hackl
Comments