I have been researching Chicago’s roller skating history for nearly 10 years now, with a goal of writing a book. I’m hoping to wrap up my research this year.

I am sooooooo thankful for the people who have given me articles, emailed pictures, shared stories…everything. There’s a lot more work to do but I’m proud of the information I’ve collected thus far.

Here’s a summary of black roller skating in Chicago. The very first rink in Chicago opened on November 10, 1880. The very first day black people were able to roller skate indoors was December 8, 1938. That was nearly 60 years later. Roller skating is still huge in the black community and in Chicago.

To commemorate this historical happening, I’m having a roller skating event from 5 p to 8 p at Glenwood Roller Rink on December 8, 2018. I have more preparation to do. Tickets will go on sale soon.

In the meantime,

• share your roller skating memories on Real Skate Stories
• email any pictures, publications or other roller skating memorabalia to me
• let me know of possible sponsors for the event
• mark your calendars and plan to be there
• share this event with other skaters and historians

Hope to see you there!