Running Tour of The Salt Shed with Photographer Sandra Steinbrecher

Over the course of two years, photographer Sandra Steinbrecher documented the transformation of the former Morton Salt complex on Elston Avenue into The Salt Shed, now one of Chicago’s most celebrated music venues.

Join us for a three-mile running tour with Read & Run Chicago guide Fernanda Wetzel and Sandra Steinbrecher, as we go behind the scenes of this creative reinvention as documented in Sandra's book, The Salt Shed. Along the route, you’ll discover the site’s layered history, its pivotal location on the Chicago River, and the story of how an industrial landmark became a cultural destination.

After the route, stick around for light bites and an in-person Q&A with Sandra Steinbrecher.

No pre-reading required to attend running tours. If you'd like to purchase the book inspiring this event, pre-order your copy for pickup at the event here through our bookstore parnter Slant of Light Books, or purchase online through to our Bookshop.org affiliate page.

DOORS OPEN: Doors open at 1:30 PM. Check in, make a name tag, purchase merch, and mingle with other readers & runners.

ROUTE: Easy-paced (11:00-12:00 min/mile) 3-mile route through the Lincoln Yards with several stops.

PODCAST LAUNCH: Stick around after the route to hear from Sandra Steinbrecher, pick up your pre-order copy of The Salt Shed, and enjoy light bites.

INCLEMENT WEATHER PLAN: If it becomes unsafe to run outside, we will hold a modified version of the event at the venue starting at 2pm. You will be notified via email no later than 1pm on Sunday, November 16 if there are any changes to the event.

All ticket holders will receive reminder emails and details 2 days and 4 hours prior to the event.

Fernanda Wetzel: Fernanda is an educator, baker, and runner who loves to read, cook, get crafty, and explore new places with her family and friends. She’s originally from Ecuador and has lived in Chicago for 22 years.

Sandra Steinbrecher: Sandra Steinbrecher is a Chicago-based documentary photographer working on long-term assignments about public education, the arts, and community development. Her work supports and promotes the work of others who are invested in transforming their communities and preserving history. She is committed to building relationships and telling nuanced stories. Learn more on her website.

Read & Run Chicago is the flagship chapter of Read & Run Tours, LLC—the nation’s first and only organization hosting running events inspired by books. Founded in 2021 by queer educator, writer, and runner Allison Yates, our mission is simple: to use movement and stories to explore place. Our community-centered programming includes running tours, book club runs, author talks, and other literary-themed fun runs—all inspired by books set in our cities and written by local authors. Along the way, we champion literacy initiatives, public libraries, independent bookstores, and the writers who bring our communities to life. In Chicago, we’ve hosted nearly 120 events featuring 30+ authors and local experts. Our work has been highlighted by CNN, Runner’s World, Midwest Living, NBC’s Chicago Today, FOX32 Good Day Chicago, WGN Radio, Block Club Chicago, and more. More information at readandrunchicago.com, Instagram, and Facebook.

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