Friends of the Crown Point Library Present Christmas at Marshall Field’s with Historian Leslie Goddard, Ph.D.

The Friends of the Crown Point Library invite the community to step back into the golden age of Chicago retail with Christmas at Marshal Field’s, an illustrated lecture presented by acclaimed historian, author, and speaker Leslie Goddard, Ph.D.

The program will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Crown Point Community Library.

For more than 150 years, Marshall Field & Company was far more than a department store—it was a Chicago institution. In this richly illustrated presentation, Goddard explores the remarkable history of Marshall Field’s, from its beginnings as a dry goods store in 1852 to its rise as an internationally recognized destination known for elegance, innovation, and exceptional customer service.

Guests will revisit beloved traditions including:

• The Walnut Room Christmas Tree
• Famous holiday window displays
• Chicken Pot Pie
• Frango Mints
• Bridal registries
• Personal shoppers
• Historic advertisements and memorabilia

Through rare photographs, vintage postcards, advertisements, menus, and memorabilia, attendees will discover why generations of shoppers considered Marshall Field’s “the store that had everything.”

Leslie Goddard is an award-winning historian, author, actress, and lecturer who presents more than 400 programs annually throughout the United States. She holds a Ph.D. from Northwestern University and master’s degrees in museum studies and theater, and she has authored three books on Chicago history, including Remembering Marshall Field’s. Her engaging presentations have appeared at museums, universities, libraries, historical societies, and festivals across more than thirty states.

This special event serves as a fundraiser for the Friends of the Crown Point Library. Proceeds help support Crown Point Library programs and community initiatives.

Ticket Information

• Friends Members: $15
• Non-Members: $20

Tickets are on sale at the Crown Point Community Library.

Payment: Cash or check only. Checks should be made payable to Friends of the Crown Point Library.

Thank you for supporting the Friends of the Crown Point Library and their mission to enhance and promote the use and enjoyment of the library.