2011-09 RHS Newsletter – FALL 2011

This comprehensive article examines the profound impact of the Baby Boom generation on American society, tracing the shift from post-war relief to a booming economy driven by the G.I. Bill and new technologies like television. It touches upon national phenomena such as the Cold War, the rise of rock 'n' roll, and the Civil Rights movement, while also detailing local Chicago history, including the population shift to the suburbs, the popularity of Swank Roller Rink and Starlite Drive-In, the emergence of fast food like Janson's Drive-In, and the installation of the first computer at Beverly Bank in 1961. The piece also highlights a 1960 visit by JFK's sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, to the Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood.

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On September 25, RHS will host author Joe Murphy for a presentation and reception regarding his book, Echoes in the Gangway. The memoir vividly recounts his experiences growing up in a large, blue-collar Catholic family on Chicago's South Side near 79th and Halsted (St. Leo's Parish) from the late 1940s to early 1960s. The article also notes the unique Chicago usage of the term "gangway" to describe the narrow passage between residential houses.

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The Ridge Historical Society extends its gratitude to various local vendors, sponsors, and donors who contributed to the 2011 Carl Spencer Memorial Bike Race Party, listing several local businesses and individuals. Additionally, the society thanks specific volunteers and board members who assisted with redecorating the RHS dining room and providing food and beverages for society events.

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The Ridge Historical Society announces its Annual Garage and "Better Book" Sale taking place on October 8 and 9, 2011, and provides instructions to the community for donating items in good repair. Concurrently, the Beverly Area Planning Association (BAPA) will host its History Mystery Bike Tour on October 9, utilizing the RHS as its staging ground, encouraging community members to participate in an active, history-filled weekend.

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By popular demand, Civil War expert and South Suburban College professor Dr. Wayne L. Wolf returns to the Ridge Historical Society to deliver a presentation titled "How the Civil War Changed America" on November 6, 2011. The free program, which commemorates the 150th anniversary of the start of the conflict, will be held at the Mt. Greenwood Cemetery Chapel and will be followed by a self-guided walking tour of Civil War veteran burials located within the cemetery grounds.

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The Ridge Historical Society is selling a black-and-white print titled "Nostalgia – Symbols of the Sixties," created by artist Susan Engle Budash, a 1967 graduate of Morgan Park High School. The artwork features sketches of memorable local businesses and architectural symbols from the Beverly and Morgan Park neighborhoods during that era, offering residents a visual trip down memory lane for $25 to support the society.

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To honor its 125th anniversary, a professionally produced, feature-length documentary titled "Chicago’s Only Castle: The History of Givins’ Irish Castle and Its Keepers" will premiere at the Beverly Arts Center on September 18, 2011. Produced, directed, and written by local resident Errol Magidson with the help of local historians, the film preserves the legacy of the area's best-known landmark, with proceeds from ticket sales split between the documentary's production expenses and the Castle Building Fund for ongoing maintenance and preservation.

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Serving as a teaser for an upcoming program with author Joe Murphy, this short quiz challenges readers' memories of the "Baby Boom" era. It asks multiple-choice questions about the first modern charge card introduced in 1950 (Diners Club) and the Mayor of Chicago immediately preceding Richard J. Daley (Martin H. Kennelly), providing detailed historical answers and context for each topic to engage the readership.

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RHS President Doris Moulton pens a heartfelt remembrance of Gene Delves, a highly intelligent and giving benefactor who passed away on August 2, 2011. The article shares excerpts from Delves's profound 1945 high school valedictorian speech, which emphasizes service to mankind, the perils of war, and the necessity of international friendship. It also highlights his impressive professional achievements, noting his pioneering work with early computers like the Univac I while employed at Arthur Andersen's Administrative Services Division, a group that later evolved into the global firm Accenture.

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This back-page calendar section provides dates, times, and details for upcoming fall events organized by or in partnership with the Ridge Historical Society. Featured events include the premiere of the Irish Castle documentary, an afternoon with author Joe Murphy, the annual garage sale, the History Mystery Bike Tour, a Civil War presentation by Wayne Wolf, and several co-sponsored programs with the Blue Island Public Library focusing on local history, authors, and the paranormal.

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