The other author of the 1908 Plan of Chicago: Edward H. Bennett – urban designer, planner and architect

Abstract

Edward H. Bennett (1874–1954) was co‐author, with Daniel Burnham, of the 1905 Plan for San Francisco and the 1909 Plan of Chicago. He was extensively engaged in the implementation of the Chicago plan for over 20 years, designing bridges, parks and road improvements. Although Bennett was educated as an architect, he designed few buildings. His consulting practice ranged from the preparation of comprehensive plans for major cities (Minneapolis, Brooklyn, Portland, Ottawa) to the design of civic centres (Denver, Detroit, Pasadena), building ensembles (Washington's Federal Triangle) open spaces, infrastructure and memorials. Bennett was therefore one of the first American urban designers, although the term was not in general use at the time. Bennett's papers and drawings are held by the Art Institute of Chicago and are a significant opportunity for research into the practice of a pioneer urban design and planning consultant.