Part 2, Convocation Summary

The architects returned to Chicago in February 1891. They met with Daniel Burnham in the Library in the Rookery Building. They submitted their detailed building plans to the Grounds and Building Committee. The buildings were huge, elaborate and classic in style. Frederick Olmsted discussed the plants, birds and boats that were to be used and the fact that he wanted the people who attended the Exposition to use their imaginations. He notes that the buildings must be completed before the real landscaping could be done, and that left only 26 months until opening day.

Work on the buildings and the site was finally started. However, the unions stopped it almost immediately, but after two weeks of discussions, work resumed. Burnham was getting frustrated with the unions and the fact that everything had to gain the approval of the committee before work could begin...