Did You Know Roller Rinks Were Attached to Amusement Parks?

By | September 25, 2014

Riverview Roller Rink

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 was also home to the greatest number of amusement parks. This is why it is an entertainment Mecca.

Riverview, located on Western & Belmont, was possibly the most famous amusement parks in the world because of its size and the popular rides. It was source of amusement from 1904 – 1967.

White City Roller Skating Sticker

White City was located on the South Side at 63rd & South Park St, which is now King Drive. It opened in 1905 and closed in 1958. The park was named after the unofficial name of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, also known as the World’s Fair. The name was changed to Park City because of the racial connotation of the name.

Speaking of race, both parks were mired in racial conflict during that time. I have only found a little information about these issues but I would appreciate if you would send any information you find about racial stuff at these parks to me.

Also, if you learn or other amusement parks anywhere in the world that hand roller rinks, that would be great.

 

Images: Ebay, Sportslinkup