I’ve spoken to a few skaters and have uncovered several YMCAs where people roller skated. If you, or anyone you know, skated at any of the Ys listed below, share your roller skating memories in the comment box below. YMCAs where Chicagoan’s skated: Wabash YMCA – 3763 S. Wabash Hyde Park YMCA – 1400 E.… Read More »
Did you know that Riverview Amusement Park had a roller skating rink? It was located at 2528 Belmont in Chicago where DeVry University sits today. Opened from 1904 to 1967, Riverview the largest and longest-running amusement park in Chicago. If you have memories of roller skating at Riverview, please share them in the comment box… Read More »
I know I’m late reporting this but Rich City Skate in Richton Park, Illinois closed on Saturday, July 30, 2016. Tina and Dyana, producers of United Skates Documentary, told me when they interviewed me for their project in July. Honestly, it slipped my mind and I didn’t hear anything about it until yesterday, the… Read More »
While looking for a particular roller rink in Chicago, I happened upon Craig’s Lost Chicago. Included in his gone but not forgotten places of amusement in this city, there were quite a few pictures of roller skating rinks and rink stickers. Visit the Craig’s Lost Chicago to go roll memory lane. Images: Craig’s Lost… Read More »
Last night, I spoke with radio personality, Al Greer, who shared his experience as a roller skating DJ. He said that he DJ’d at Rollerena on 103rd and Calumet in Chicago and Skate City on 63rd. When I ask people about the rinks where they skated, only a few have mentioned this rink, so I… Read More »
There were two such rinks in Chicago in the 1950s and 60s: Riverview and White City. As I conduct my research, I am learning that Chicago has a history of everything, including being home to the Chicago Skate Company, which was one of the largest roller skating companies in the WORLD during its day. It… Read More »