The "Unknown Chicago" blog on
Chicago Now has an article on Uptown's history (Chilling: "By 1970 portions of Wilson Avenue had become a skid row. The crime rate soared and 'L' commuters were warned not to change trains at Uptown stations"), and some
very cool photos.
Check it all out here. Above is a photo of the Aragon (powder blue!) from 1976, with a "family billiards parlor" where the child care center is now. Many more photos, both more current and much older, are with the article.
Love it, and I love how quickly it jumps from Shiller's election to the present, signaling that Uptown was basically at a standstill and is now poised for CHANGE
ReplyDeleteGreat pictures of Uptown. As I drive down broadway I can see change already as I pass Target and the numerous outdoor cafe settings on that route. Now I cannot wait to see Shiller`s office gone. Thats real Uptown change.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link! Enjoyed the article and LOVED the pictures!!!! I was amazed by the before and after shots.
ReplyDeleteI would like to see some pictures of what the Lawrence House used to be like before it became what it is today. I find it hard to believe it was anything other than a slum tenement.
ReplyDeleteCurrent there is a rank smell throughout the lobby because of a water leak, nobody seems to care it smells awful in there.
Love the old Aragon picture. I do remember the pool hall. It was front for alot of mischief...
ReplyDeleteWe used to frequent the "Kings" building on Kenmore with the HUGE Gold Crown on it. It was quite the spectacle even for Uptown. I saw a Gangland episode over the weekend that featured Gangster Disciples from Cabrini Green. Since they mowed those down, I believe they moved Northward? Coincidence?