A History of CHATS

Founded in 1985 as a special service of the Caltech Women's Club, what is now CHATS began in response to the success of architectural tours created for a campus women's conference. Recognizing the need for a permanent, well-researched docent program, founders Missy Jennings, Paula Samazan, and Romy Wyllie, along with a small group of dedicated volunteers, formed a group focused on studying and presenting Caltech's architectural heritage. In its early years, members conducted extensive research, met regularly to share findings, and developed a formal tour script. By the end of the first year, CHATS was offering monthly community tours as well as special tours by request.

Over time, the group expanded its educational reach. In 1988, Romy Wyllie developed an illustrated lecture on the history of Caltech's campus architecture. CHATS members have also contributed significantly to Caltech publications, including brochures, booklets, and articles, and played a key role in documenting the Institute's architectural legacy. These efforts have supported tours drawing tens of thousands of visitors over the decades.

Renamed CHATS (Caltech History & Architectural Tour Service) in 2018, the group remains an active, volunteer-driven docent program. Its members continue to prepare tours through independent study, on-site practice, and mentoring, fostering a collegial and supportive community. With a core group of active guides and honored former docents, CHATS continues its mission of helping visitors and its own members to see architecture with informed and appreciative eyes.