Opus 408D: What do Frank Lloyd Wright and Ernest Hemingway have in common?

OAK PARK, ILLINOIS

I traveled with David to Oak Park, IL expecting to find only Frank Lloyd Wright buildings. I found out that the town was interested in architecture long before Mr. Wright. I didn't get to hear any organs, but did run into several friends who were on a day trip to the town with the Organ Historical Society Convention. I even got to have ice cream with our organ builder, John Bishop.

First United Methodist - Oak Park, IL

Across the street from the Methodist church was Hemingway's birthplace. What a thrill. Now I've been to his home in Key West, FL and to his birthplace. One of my favorite writers, of course!

Ernest Hemingway's Birthplace

And then there's the Hemingway museum. It was closed by the time we got to that part of town but what a lovely building.

Hemingway Museum

One of the gems in Oak Park is Grace Episcopal Church. The door was open so we went in. Found great literature on the church, it's organ (1920's Casavant) and the town.

Grace Episcopal Church - Oak Park, IL

Of course as sacred architecture in Oak Park goes it doesn't get any better than the Unity Temple (Frank Lloyd Wright, architect). We were treated to an informative introduction to its architecture by a knowledgeable docent. Her midwestern twang was so appropriate to the setting. I see why the midwesterners giggle when they visit our southern treasures and hear our docents! It's all part of the experience - don' cha know! (My use of that expression may be like someone from up north trying to use "bless your heart" or "ya'll.")