Head over to Sulzer Regional Library in Lincoln Square (or pick up a used copy online) to page through “A Gentleman’s Guide to Single Women in Chicago.” Advent, a bygone Oak Brook firm published this text, attributed to Robert J. Brennan, bearing a single rose on the cover in 1982 to spotlight Windy City bachelorettes. To be considered for inclusion, bachelorettes submitted a lengthy application vetted and scored by the Gentleman’s Guide board, who weighed accomplishments, aspirations and each bachelorette’s “feelings toward masculinity.” The top 150 scores made it in. Profiles feature bachelorette photo, basic stats (height, weight, occupation), a one-page personal statement, and contact info, typically through the publisher. “The Gentleman’s Guide” author and publisher recommends interested gentlemen include a photo of their own along with correspondence, with the caveat, “It would be my hope that you are all intelligent enough individuals to judge yourself accordingly.” (John Moss) Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln, REF, HQ800.N624 1982
