I have been researching Chicago’s roller skating history since 2009 and will bring it all together this year. Although my primary goal is a book, my vision is to have a coffee table book, a documentary and museum exhibits.
Until those things happen, I am presenting Chicago Roller Skating History for all audiences, especially Baby Boomers.
My first presentation will be held tomorrow, February 16, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at Park Ridge Library,20 S. Prospect Avenue, Park Ridge, IL.
I will take my audience on a journey through roller skating history, starting in the 1700s through today, with the focus on Chicago. It’s going to be a lively and interactive presentation.
So, if you know anyone out that way, be sure to let them about my presentation. It’s free for Park Ridge residents and $5.00 for non-residents.
My next presentation is Rolling Down Memory Lane: Skating in Chicago at Mathers Cafe, 33 E. 83rd Street in Chicago. It will be held on Friday, March 11, 2016 at 1:00 p.m.
Hope to see you at one of them.
Hey Marcie
Came across your website while researching the Roller Bowl and White City but curious if your research came across the Roseland Roller Rink. It was located on the south side blocks away from the Swank.
You raised the question about black skaters…I have found that in the large cities, black skaters dominate the skate scene with various skate dance styles. There is a gal up in Detroit that, like yourself, is researching roller skating.
Check this out: Williams, C., JB Quad Skating: An Introduction to JB Old School Quad Skating, about sports. Retrieved from http://inlineskating.about.com/od/quad_skating/a/jb_skating.htm
Hi Tom, I did find a sticker of the Roseland Roller Rink but not much else. Did your roller skate there? Do you know where I can find more information or pictures?
Thank you for sharing that “black skaters dominate the skate scene with various skate dance styles.” My friend could not understand why my presentation started with mostly white skaters and turn black after a certain year.
And thanks for sharing this resource, I will check it out. If you’re interested in learning more about Chicago Roller Skating, visit http://www.realskatestories.com.
Oh, if you have any pictures or videos you are willing to share, please let me know. Thank you.
I used to go to the Planet rink at 71st & Racine. A sign at the entrance would read “members only” That was a way of saying ‘WHITES ONLY”. I was there skating every Sunday in the 50’s
Sweet. Thanks for sharing, Richard. This is SUPER valuable.