So, this was a random thought since I was writing about the history of Black History. This is not a totally off-the-wall thought since Black History has its roots in Chicago. Let’s think about this. Dr. Carter G. Woodson started Negro History Week in 1926. The Savoy Ballroom in Chicago opened in 1927. Black people… Read More »
As I speak to different people about the early years of Chicago roller skating history, I’m finding that Ron Jellse was a legend during his day. Apparently, he was a world class skater who taught black people how to roller skate despite segregation. I do have a quite a few mentions of Mr. Jellse. Thus,… Read More »
From what I’ve heard, Rainbo Roller Rink, located at 4812 N. Clark in Chicago, was a popular place to skate. The second level must have been one if its great assets because it is one of the memories people speak of most. If Rainbo was your favorite place to skate? Share your memories now!
I am pleased to announce that my roller skating site, Real Skate Stories, is up and running. This is not the most exciting roller skating site you will find online. However, it is one of the most interesting – well to me. While all of the other sites provide information and share memories, I am… Read More »
If you do have any information on Chicago Roller Skate Company, please share. This would help greatly with my research. Thanks so much! Image: Examiner
In fact, Black people were first allowed to roller skate indoors at the Savoy Ballroom in Chicago’s Bronzeville community on December 8, 1938 thanks to Jimmie Davis, the manager of The Savoy at that time. I don’t have the newspaper articles back this up because the microfilm machines were down at the Vivian Harsh Research… Read More »