(Not Just) Another Brick in the Wall
Summary
Host Roman Mars and guest Will Quam explore the history of brick in Chicago, focusing on the Monadnock building and the city’s shift from wood to masonry after the Great Fire. They discuss the rise of "Chicago common brick," the transition from structural to decorative use, and the eventual decline of local manufacturing due to concrete and environmental regulations. The conversation also highlights the critical role of mortar in preserving historic structures.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
Introduction to the Monadnock Building
The Monadnock's unique masonry construction
Will Quam and the Brick of Chicago tours
Defining a brick and Chicago's history
The Great Fire and the rise of Chicago common brick
The reputation of Chicago common bricks
Mechanization of brick production
Photography and the reality of common brick walls
Face brick vs. common brick in Chicago
Geography of brick types across the US
Transition from structural brick to steel frames
Decline of common brick manufacturing
Brick as a modern design material
Brick in schools and urban connection
The persistence of brick in language and culture
Sponsor breaks
The role of mortar in brick walls
Problems with cement mortar in historic buildings
Closing remarks and credits
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