Thanks largely to its architectural history, one that spans iconic periods over the past century and a half, Chicago has been a favorite among travelers long before the days of replicable color photography. Exhibit A: this hefty collection of 20th-century postcards recently pulled together by Curbed Chicago. These images are reminders of how tourists saw sights long before they were considered über Instagrammable. Many of the buildings featured are still around today, recognizable but updated. For example, the giant ivory compound below, which once hosted the pioneering Marshall Field's chain of department stores, is now the city's major Macy's.
To browse through all 51, just head on over to Curbed Chicago.
· Here Now, 51 Vintage Postcards from the Windy City [Curbed Chicago]
· 1950s Postcards Show Former Glory of the American Motel [Curbed National]