West Ridge Bungalow Neighbors

WRBN Is On Hiatus

2011-11-16T18:01:00.002-06:00

WRBN has not met for many months and may fold in 2012. For the time being, this blog will be kept up for reference puposes.

CPL Budget Cuts

2011-11-16T17:58:00.001-06:00

To the Honorable Mayor Rahm Emanuel and 50th Ward Alderman Debra Silverstein:

We are writing as officers of a neighborhood community organization, the West Ridge Bungalow Neighbors, to oppose the proposed cuts in the Chicago Public Library budget.

Our volunteer group was formed in 2003 to provide resources and education to West Ridge residents on topics relating to historic home maintenance and restoration, aspects of the Arts and Crafts movement, Chicago bungalow and Prairie School architecture, and local history. Beginning in 2004, the Northtown Branch of the CPL provided us with a meeting space for our monthly gatherings, which were always open to the public and free of charge. Though not formally associated with the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association or the Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society, we worked closely with both organizations over the years. WRBN members did extensive research on the history of our neighborhood, and In 2008, WRBN volunteers (along with the HCBA) completed a successful nomination to list the Talman West Ridge Historic Chicago Bungalow District on the National Register for Historic Places. The Northtown Branch Library graciously hosted our celebration of the National Register listing in September

2008, which was attended by more than 75 neighbors. Librarians Rose Powers, Catherine Wilson, and the rest of the staff were always helpful -- whether we needed research materials, or any equipment for our meetings.

In gratitude for the Library's support, WRBN made contributions to the Northtown Branch totaling more than $900. Many of our members also participated as donors and volunteer workers in the branch's Friends of the Library annual book sales to raise funds for the Library.

In 2010, Mayor Daley made extensive cuts to the CPL budget, which included reductions in hours for the branches. These cuts meant that the Northtown Branch was never open beyond 8:00 pm, which made it impossible for our group (consisting primarily of working professionals) to continue to meet there. Without a meeting place, our group has become less active in the community.

Further cuts to the Library would harm local residents even more.

The Northtown Library, despite its aging and deteriorated physical state, has remained a vital and heavily-utilized center for learning and community activity in West Ridge. Please don't deplete even more of its already overworked staff and meager resources!

Sincerely,

Jofrid Stavig and Maribeth Brewer,

Founders and Co-Chairs, West Ridge Bungalow Neighbors

Anastasia Glapa

Treasurer, West Ridge Bungalow Neighbors

Beverly Wood Works

2011-03-06T09:39:00.000-06:00

Damon Nelson of Bevery Wood Works grew up as a 5th generation Andersonville resident and is very familair with West Ridge. He says he's always loved the quiet tree lined streets he and his older brother would often pedal down.

Since leaving Andersonville for the southside neighborhood of Beverly he has created Beverly Wood Works. He specializes in wood radiator covers, but also builds reproduction Craftsman era furniture as well as built-ins, replacement doors that match the originals and window screens and storms, all at resonable prices. Damon says he started Beverly Wood Works as a creative outlet, not a money maker. His goal is to help those in the know about the history of their homes create a living environment for themselves that is appropriate to the original character.

Check out Beverly Wood Works and see for yourself.

Villa Tour

2010-07-11T11:24:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the Villa community and our co-chair Jo for arranging a private tour of this community for WRBN members.

The tour begins

Columns mark the entry to the Villa historic district

Frescoe in the dining room of the former home of of the owner of Polonia coal. Note the coal bucket.

Sign up now for the July 10 tour of The Villa

2010-06-29T12:54:00.001-05:00

Greetings Bungalow Neighbors,

It's time to get your official rsvp's in for next week's WRBN members' tour to the Villa. Even if you previously expressed interest in the tour, PLEASE send another rsvp by Tuesday July 6, with the names of people coming. You may invite interested friends or neighbors as long as we know who's coming by Tuesday; the Villa group will add another docent if needed. The cost for the tour is $10 per person (cash only), payable on the day of the tour.

We'll assemble at the starting point at 10:00 a.m., rain or shine. Directions and meeting location will be sent to participants next week. The tour will last approximately 2 hours.

We will organize carpooling for those interested, so let us know if you can drive (& how many riders you could take) or will need a ride.

Jo & Maribeth

WRBN co-chairs

Our treasurer Ann Glapa is still accepting 2010 WRBN dues of $15 per household. You can drop off your check made out to West Ridge Bungalow Neighbors (or cash in an envelope labeled with your name) through the mail slot at Glapas house, or mail it to Ann at 2601 W Farwell Ave, Chicago 60645.

Villa Tour info:
Join us on July 10 for a private guided walking tour of the first significant bungalow neighborhood in Chicago, The Villa, a Chicago Landmark Historic District since 1983 http://www.thevillachicago.com/

The Villa celebrated its centennial in 2007, which means it was developed roughly 15 - 20 years ahead of our West Ridge bungalow neighborhoods.

The most prolific of the Villa architects was Clarence Hatzfeld, whose name you probably know as the architect for our very own Chicago Landmark, the IBP Field House. (He also designed our Green Briar Park and Chippewa Park field houses). We will be touring the interior of a Hatzfeld house, as well as some private gardens.

From the Villa website:

The Villa is "one of the city’s first planned urban developments, featuring streets divided by park-like medians, and strict covenants that governed density, land and building use, and architectural style" .

Also notable are the "rubble stone planters at every corner. These pillars, standing five feet tall or so, were originally constructed as stucco light stands, with globe shaped fixtures on top. In 1923, they were rebuilt as stone planters, possibly inspired by a house at the corner of Avers and Avondale with a rubble stone front porch and chimney."

You may notice that the Villla pillars are similar to the original pillars that mark the entrance to Indian Boundary Park on Lunt, just east of the Field House.

2010-06-06T10:13:00.000-05:00

A wonderful new story from our neighbor Lynette, required reading for all bungalow dwellers: http://isgreaterthan.net/2010/06/memory-walls/

Nature By Design: A Tour of Four Historic Gardens

2010-06-02T17:22:00.001-05:00

WHAT: Garden Tour – Nature By Design: A Tour of Four Historic Gardens
WHEN: Saturday, June 26, 2010 – 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Tour starts at the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Historical Society
361 East Westminster, Lake Forest
COST: Tickets $30 in advance, $35 at the door

Experience the past and present beauty of four noteworthy local gardens Saturday, June 26 on the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Historical Society’s garden tour, “Nature By Design: A Tour of Four Historic Gardens”. The tour is presented in conjunction with the Historical Society’s exhibit Nature By Design: Drawings of the Foundation for Architecture and Landscape Architecture, 1926-1935.

The tour highlights four gardens that still contain remnants of their original design, or have been thoughtfully restored: Covin Tree (the former Walter and Katherine Brewster estate), Fairlawn (the former Farwell-McGann estate), House of the Four Winds (the former Hugh and Mary McBirney estate), and Villa Turicum (the former Harold and Edith R. McCormick estate).

Participants in the tour will have a unique opportunity to compare the gardens’ current splendor with renderings created over 75 years ago by budding professionals. The exhibit Nature By Design features over thirty original sketches and watercolors of Lake Forest sites drawn by students of architecture and landscape architecture in the 1920s and 1930s. These students were invited to attend a special program of summer training in Lake Forest, the Foundation for Architecture and Landscape Architecture, where they learned from masters of the field and used the local homes and gardens as models for study. Among these models were the four gardens included in the tour.

The self-guided tour is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and begins at the Historical Society, where participants will pick up their tour booklet. Tickets are $30 in advance ($35 at the door) and available on the web at www.lflbhistory.org or by calling the Historical Society at 847.234.5253.

The Nature By Design exhibit will have special hours for those on the tour and will be open on June 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. The exhibit is generally open to the public on Tuesdays,Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. The Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Historical Society is located at 361 E. Westminster in Lake Forest.

The program was made possible by contributions from Lesser, Lutrey & McGlynn, LLP

Chicago Victory Gardens lecture on June 16th

2010-05-31T19:31:00.002-05:00

Victory Garden at Peterson and Campbell, circa 1940s

The Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society invites you to join us on the for a lecture titled "Chicago Victory Gardens:Yesterday and Tomorrow".

Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 7:00pm, Devon Bank, lower level meeting room, 6444 N. Western.

Listen as avid gardener and blogger LaManda Joy unearths the fascinating stories behind Chicago's World War II Victory Garden effort. LaManda will reveal how Chicago mobilized to deal with food rationing and
severely decreased resources while building morale and community pride to become the Victory Garden role model for the entire nation.

Outlining parallels between the Victory Gardeners of the 1940s and the booming garden movement of today, LaManda will also discuss her latest endeavor, The Peterson Garden Project, www.petersongarden.org

Admission to Lecture

$5.00 per adult, $1.00 per child under 12

RP/WRHS members: free

All proceeds benefit RP/WRHS and The Peterson Garden Project.

Wild life in West Ridge

2010-05-28T08:13:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday at 7:20 a.m., running with my dog, Dickens, south on McCormick, we got to Devon, and we noticed four deer on the south-east corner. Standing. Waiting for the light to change, maybe. Then three more deer came up from the canal, then two more, and another. In all, 11 deer congregated at Devon and McCormick. The light changed to green, and they all moved north, as gracefully as a breeze.

This past week, Michele and Dickens walked around Indian Boundary, and spotted a bunch of baby ducks. The whole pack of them wouldn't make an appetizer. Cute yellow fluffy things.

The goslings can't be far behind.

A great beautiful weekend shaping up in West Ridge. I hope everyone gets a chance to enjoy it!

Dan

RPWRHS Tour on May 2

2010-03-26T19:07:00.001-05:00

The Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society will host its Annual House Walk on Sunday, May 2, 2010 from 12 Noon to 5:00 p.m. This year’s tour will highlight homes surrounding Indian Boundary Park, including the notable Park Castles and Park Gables apartment buildings.

Registration for the house walk is available at www.rpwrhs.org or by calling (773) 764-4078. Admission is $25 for society members and $30 for non-members. A discounted rate of $20 for members and $25 for non-members will be offered through April 25. Day-of registration will be available at the Indian Boundary Park Cultural Center, 2500 West Lunt Ave. beginning at 12 Noon. The last tour will start at 3:30 p.m.

Several units of the Park Castles and Park Gables will be open for the tour as well as the buildings’ spectacular Art Deco swimming pools. The apartments grace the eastern and northern boundary of the park – a magnificent group of Gothic and Tudor Revival style structures built in the late 1920s by developers Gubbins, McDonnell & Blietz.

Indian Boundary Park was opened in 1922 as the centerpiece of the Ridge Avenue Park District. The 13-acre park was designed as a pastoral landscape with picturesque gardens, a lagoon with a small island, rolling lawns, and meandering paths. Its field house, now the Indian Boundary Park Cultural Center, was designed by prominent architect Clarence Hatzfeld, and is noted for its unusual combination of Tudor Revival design and Native American images and sculptures.

Several other homes near the park owned by notable 1920s personalities will be included in the tour. The Indian Boundary area is a hidden gem on the north side, with an abundance of historically and architecturally significant buildings and landscapes.

A new exhibit in the park’s cultural center, A Park is Your Front Yard: Indian Boundary Park and the Gubbins, McDonnell & Blietz Co-ops, 1915-1929 will be open to tour participants on May 2.

The Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society was formed in 1975 to preserve the history of Rogers Park and West Ridge as a vital part of the City of Chicago, and to provide interactive education about these communities to the public.

WRBN is now on Facebook

2010-02-28T12:47:00.001-06:00

For up-to-date posts and new information, join us on Facebook!

2010-01-16T22:09:00.000-06:00

Many, many thanks for alerting me to Diamond Dame Web site. on the other hand, maybe I am not so thankful. I spent far too much time there tonight. The breadth of material, the backstory on the photos and the organization are outstanding.

I will return the favor by presenting you to a site that will soak up your discretionary time and enrich your life. Here it is:

http://www.shorpy.com/

Dan Miller
Talman Avenue

6th Annual WRBN post-holiday party!

2010-01-09T18:38:00.006-06:00

Let's skip over the fact that I've not posted here since November and get right to the point...it's PARTY TIME! Join us on Saturday, January 16th to walk, wine and dine between 3 different West Ridge bungalows. You need to be a member to attend, but all (not just bungalow dwellers)are welcome to join for just $15.00 per household per year.

This Library of Congress photo is from the fun Diamond Dame blog, a great source of all sorts of things from the 1920s.

Southern Bungalows

2009-11-06T08:32:00.021-06:00

On a recent trip south (and apparently a tour of places named after women) we stopped in Florence, Alabama and Anna, Illinois. After checking out the Wright and Griffin buildings we'd planned on seeing, I wandered the surrounding streets to discover one incredible bungalow after another. If you're ever in the Muscle Shoals area, I recommend visiting Florence. It's a charming college town with an unusually large number of historic districts for its size.

Florence, Alabama

Double squirrel bird bath in Anna, Illinois

Anna, Illinois

OK, it's not a bungalow, but this vintage sign for a bread company in Anna is just too cute...let's call it a bunny-galow.

Who was Bruce Goff?

2009-11-06T07:49:00.007-06:00

On our field trip to Graceland cemetery, several of you wondered who Bruce Goff was, his headstone is featured in a previous post about that trip. Here's some Goff information courtesty of Absolute Astronomy:

Goff's accumulated design portfolio of 500 projects (about one quarter of them built) demonstrates a restless, sped-up evolution through conventional styles and forms at a young age, through the Prairie style of his heroes and correspondents Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan . Finding inspiration in sources as varied as Antoni Gaudi, Balinese music, Claude Debussy , Japanese ukiyo-e prints, and seashells, Goff's mature work had no precedent and he has few heirs other than his former assistant, New Mexico architect Bart Prince. His contemporaries primarily followed tight functionalistic floorplans with flat roofs and no ornament. Goff's idiosyncratic floorplans, attention to spatial effect, and use of recycled and/or unconventional materials such as gilded zebrawood, cellophane strips, cake pans, glass cullet, Quonset Hut ribs, ashtrays, and white turkey feathers, challenge conventional distinctions between order and disorder. Some notable buildings designed by Goff are the Bavinger House in Norman, Oklahoma, the Ruth VanSickle Ford House in Aurora, Illinois ,the Colmorgan House in Glenview, Illinois, and the Pavilion for Japanese Art at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art
His most ambitious built work, the Joe D. Price House and Studio, also known as Shin'enKan, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma was destroyed by arson in 1996. Goff also designed the Searing house in Prairie Village, Kansas

Goff's Duncan House is located deep in the Shawnee National Forest and was a stop along the way during our quick trip south in September. I'll let the pictures do the talking here.

Happy Halloween from WRBN!

2009-10-31T11:15:00.003-05:00

This great 1920s photo of a young lady decked out in spiderlicious style is from the creepy cool Agent Gallery on Damen.

Derrick's Avalon Bungalow BBQ

2009-09-28T08:27:00.018-05:00

On Saturday we trekked to Chicago's Avalon neighborhood for a tour of Derrick's mural-filled home. This must be one of the cleanest, best preserved bungalows in the city. And the murals --I've never seen anything like them in a bungalow or elsewhere. Hand painted and original to the home, they fill all four walls of the dining room.

When I asked Derrick what work he'd done to the place he said "Nothing - I just moved my furniture in. Oh yeah, and I painted a couple of rooms". (As someone who spent about a year painting over pink woodwork, I'm more than a little envious.) Come to find out, Derrick is only the second owner of this home. The first owner spent his entire life here, a flipper bought & cleaned up the place, and Derrick moved in.

We were privileged to meet Derrick's mom as well as his neighbors, William Cousins and his daughter Cheryl. Mr. Cousins has a remarkable life story:

"Like many Chicagoans, William Cousins, Jr., has his roots in the South. Cousins was born in 1927, in Swiftown, Mississippi. His family moved to Memphis, Tennessee and then to Chicago. Cousins graduated from DuSable High School on the city's South Side in 1945. He received his B. A. degree in political science from the University of Illinois, where he graduated with honors in 1948. Cousins then went on to Harvard Law School, receiving his LL.B. in 1951.

Cousins served his country as an infantry lieutenant in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953. He continued as an active army reservist for twenty years and retired as a lieutenant colonel. Cousins began practicing law in 1953 as an attorney with the Chicago Title & Trust Company. From 1957 to 1961, he served as a Republican Assistant State's Attorney. Cousins entered private practice with the law firm of Turner, Cousins, Gavin and Watt. In 1967, Cousins was elected as a "Free Democratic" alderman from Chicago's Eighth Ward.

As an alderman, Cousins worked outside of Chicago's powerful political machine and was reelected as an independent until 1976, when he ran for Circuit Court Judge of Cook County and won. Over the next twenty-six years, Cousins presided as a judge on the Illinois Appellate Court and the Cook County Circuit Court. He was also appointed to various positions, including chairman of the Illinois Judicial Conference and as a member of the Special Supreme Court Committee on Capital Cases. While working as a judge, Cousins also served as Chairman of the Illinois Judicial Council, Chairman of the Judicial Council of the National Bar Association and as a Board member of the National Center for State Courts.

Before election to the judiciary, Cousins dedicated his time and talents to an array of organizations and causes, including Chicago Area Planned Parenthood Association and Operation PUSH." (From The History Makers)

Thanks, Derrick for introducing us to Avalon, your wonderful neighbors and your beautiful abode.

Elks Veterans Memorial

2009-09-26T11:24:00.013-05:00

Ever wondered what's inside this building? Me too. Last night Preservation Chicago hosted their annual fall fundraising event at the spectacular Elks Memorial. This was the first non-Elk event ever to be held at the Memorial which made the evening even more special.

Built in 1926 at the same time many of our West Ridge bungalows were constructed, the Memorial boasts room after room of marble, carved wood and magnificent murals and sculpture. You can take a virtual tour here but if you have the chance, I highly recommend you see it in person. Wandering through this building made me wish I had time to explore all of the hidden treasures that must exist all over Chicago.

(Photos from the Elks website.)

Explore Avalon with WRBN on September 26

2009-09-12T15:17:00.003-05:00

WRBNeighbor Derrick invites all members to explore Chicago's Avalon community and visit his exceptional home for a tour and Barbeque on Saturday, September 26th. Watch for an email with details, coming soon! That's Derrick's place above with a group of WRBN visitors last fall.

Thanks, Frank!

2009-09-12T14:57:00.003-05:00

Pictured above is is the old broken copper 1929 weathervane from the Indian Boundary Park field house, and WRBNeighbor and Roycroft master caftsmanFrank Glapa with the new, handcrafted weathervane he made as a gift to the park.

With donation from neighborhood organizations, Frank also made new planter boxes for the front of the Green Briar Park field house.

The Burnham Centennial continues...

2009-08-02T15:48:00.010-05:00

If you missed the first Burnham Parks tour, it's not too late to sign up for the next one offered on September 26th. You'll have to make a decision though, as our WRBN South Side tour and barbecue is the same day. Too many tours, too little time...

Below are reports from WRBNeighbors who attended yesterday:

The Burnham Tour was AMAZING!!
We saw the underground mechanical rooms of Buckingham Fountain (you pay $50 every Friday night as a fundraiser to see it), then went to Jackson Park and saw the "only bridge designed by Burnham" now called the "Clarence Darrow Bridge", went to the Osaka Island Garden with the Tea House and waterfalls. Then drove along and imagined why the "gondola canal" was not built where the Midway Plaisance is now.

In Washington Park, we saw the details to the Fountain of Time, Loredo Taft has sculpted himself on the back, male figure with the "short tunic", then on to the DuSable Museum to see the inside of the building from the Fair....one of the few still standing designed by Burnham from the World's Fair. Drove on to Sherman Park and had lunch (amazing field house with murals by Art Inst. students), last and not least the Fuller Park field house another group of murals by the head of the Art Institute Dept. - also, has a "cloisters" garden room with crossing paths planted with small shrub roses and crab apple trees (in Spring has to be magnificent) a water fountain in the center, and at the end of the visual lines the bust of U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Fuller!!

Many, many details to print here.....very impressive tour!!
Julia was great and of course we saw a couple of other tour participants we got to know from Lincoln Park Docents....well worth the $30 each, which included a wonderful box lunch from Harry Caray's of pesto chicken or grilled veggie, with chips, fruit salad, choc. chip cookie and water bottle!!

Carol can add more to this.....we loved it!!
Ann

If you want to be a boxer, Fuller Park is where you go. There are 3 boxing rings and one was used by M. Ali and other greats to train. COOL.

This tour was so worthwhile, just long enough, and worth way more that the $30 fee. Highly recommend it. Julia Bachrach is very knowledgeable, very lively, and a delight to be with all day.

Carol

(Photo of the Fuller Park field house from the Burnham Plan Centennial website)

Independence Park Bungalow

2009-08-02T15:15:00.009-05:00

This morning several WRBNeighbors attended the Pancake Breakfast at the Independence Park Bungalow. As I attempted to shoot my first photo, the camera told me I'd forgotten my memory card at home, so, dear readers, you'll just have to look at their website or make the short trip yourself.

I'll leave it up to Ann to give you the lowdown:

The "Breakfast at Independence Park" was delicious, well organized, soft blue grass music on the lawn, 3 choices of pancakes, or a bit of everything, great coffee and tables set all over the inside, on the back porch, on the grass in front and over 35 volunteers Lynda O. told me - their 6th Year. They raise the money for the neighborhood group and park group. Nice setting and nicely done.

Alderman Marge Laurino was there, very friendly and low key, talking to everyone (not campaigning either), we saw local police officers waiting in line.
For $10 - the best gourmet type choices of fresh peaches, and New Orleans eggs, apple pancakes, sausages, etc. I have ever tasted!! Lots of families with kids and all well behaved!!

We were impressed.

Ann

BTW - across the street lives Chicago author Audrey Niffenegger who wrote the best seller "The Time Traveler's Wife" coming out in the movies in another week!! She has a nicely done new corner garden.

Get the skinny on the new Green house

2009-07-26T18:26:00.005-05:00

Curious about the new, skinny house on Warren Park? Read all about it at the Park House Construction blog. Welcome, Green neighbor!
(Rendering from the Sandberg Architecture website.)

Going to Graceland

2009-07-26T17:56:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday WRBN members toured Graceland Cemetery. Led by Donna S. , we got the inside scoop on the former Chicago movers and shakers who are buried here. Familiar names included Louis Sullivan, Richard Nickel, Mies, Marion Mahoney Griffin and Marshall Field.

Pictured are some Sullivan-esque iron mausoleum doors near the entrance to the cemetery and the unusual marker for architect Bruce Goff.

Oh - and if you're interested, there's still space available. I'm considering it...

Alex

2009-07-22T17:29:00.001-05:00

This post is dedicated to the memory of Alex, the best cat ever.

BBQ with Boo

2009-07-02T19:54:00.006-05:00

WRBNeighbor and chef Patrick Williams is featured in a recent issue of Edible Chicago. You can read all about him and his Grampa Boo (in photo) who inspired Patrick's delicious BBQ sauce. Patrick, we salute you and your grandfather on the eve of the barbecuing-est holiday of the year!

Signed, sealed, delivered

2009-06-20T19:20:00.005-05:00

We're happy to report that both the Rogers Park Manor AND Talman West Ridge National Register Historic Districts are now complete with with signs. Check them out as you stroll around the neighborhood.

The yin and yang of West Ridge

2009-06-06T15:41:00.007-05:00

Last week I went out with a friend to photograph & document graffiti in the neighborhood for a project she's been working on. We found plenty of spray paint as well as some very sad looking foreclosures (see my Good, Bad & Ugly blog for those images). Throughout the afternoon though, I also came across plenty of lovely homes and gardens -- this one is in the 2400 block of Fitch, just north of Indian Boundary Park.

Spring in West Ridge

2009-05-10T10:13:00.003-05:00

Upcoming May & June Events

2009-05-10T09:39:00.001-05:00

May 16
Great Chicago Places and Spaces FREE architectural tours, including a tour of Devon Avenue, and a Bungalows by Bus tour of one of the National Register Bungalow Historic Districts
www.greatchicagoplaces.us

May 16
Wright Plus 2009 housewalk in Oak Park is sold out

May 16 - 17
Green Festival Chicago at Navy Pier, featuring green vendors, speakers, and more
http://www.greenfestivals.org/chicago/

May 31
Arts and Crafts Chicago 4th Annual Antique and Contemporary Sale in River Forest, including new work by WRBNeighbor Frank Glapa
www.artsandcraftschicago.com

June 7 (5:00 p.m.) and June 14 (7:00 p.m.)
WRBNeighbor Johanna Nauraine sings at Davenport's Piano Bar, 1383 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. Call 773 278-1830 for reservations and info.

June 18 evening
Northtown Garden Society Spring Garden Walk, in and around the Talman West Ridge Historic Bungalow District. Contact Ginny Davis gdavis2431@sbcglobal.net for info.

We're trying to reschedule our Window Restoration meeting at Alison's, and it might happen in June.

We've searched for info. on the Berwyn Bungalow tour, but have found nothing to indicate that there will be one in 2009. Please inform us if you know something we don't.

Jo and Maribeth
WRBN Co-Chairs

Rock On!

2009-04-07T17:46:00.003-05:00

Looking a lot like a Gabion basket wall, a creative fence design in progress in a bungalow back yard on the 6700 block of N. Talman.

Mirror, mirror on the window (and the wall)

2009-04-04T15:00:00.007-05:00

My co-worker Fran lives in a well-kept vintage apartment building a few blocks south of Devon.

She's getting married soon and moving into the vacant unit one floor down. I went to see her new place yesterday, and was pretty impressed with the bathroom. The entire room is covered in pink and black glass tile (known by the brand names of Vitrolite or Carrara) and mirrors. What you see in the photo is the window, which has had the glass replaced with mirrors and surrounded by a mirrored frame. The reflection is of the vanity mirror, surrounded by lights worthy of a movie house marquee. As I stood there taking it all in, I could feel my inner Jean Harlow emerging -- but the realization of needing to hit the road for my weekly trip to Aldi took care of that pretty quickly. Somthing tells me that even in the depths of the first Depression, Ms. Harlow wasn't bagging her own groceries.

(Also, check out this great set of Flick photos of vintage bathrooms)

Johanna at the Green Mill

2009-03-29T16:16:00.016-05:00

WRBNeighbor Johanna Nauraine sent us this message today:

I just wanted to let you know that I'm one of the headliners in an upcoming jazz concert at the historic Green Mill next Saturday afternoon, April 4th at 12:30. You won't see this performance listed on the Green Mill calendar because we have special arrangements to perform there - negotiated by nationally known jazz singer, Spider Saloff who's been teaching our jazz class (this is our class performance).

If you have time to stop in and say hi and listen awhile, please do. If not - I have two solo shows coming up at Davenport's Piano Bar in June. Save the dates! June 7 at 5:00 p.m. and
June 14th at 7:00 p.m.

So, come on out and support Johanna in the wonderfully restored Prohibition-era decor of Uptown's Green Mill at 4802 N. Broadway Ave.

TWR National Historic District in the news

2009-03-24T22:28:00.004-05:00

Read all about it in this Sun Times article, and many thanks to Bill Cunniff for a well-written story. Photo of the 6700 block of N. Talman from the Sun-Times.

Shady Rest

2009-03-15T15:31:00.003-05:00

A pine-shaded stone bench in front of Park Gables, just north of Indian Boundary Park.

Bold Plans. Big Dreams.

2009-03-14T11:44:00.005-05:00

Do you know about the Burnham Plan Centennial? No? Click here to learn all about it. As part of the Centennial, members of WRBN and RP/WRHS have been attending workshops and sharing our neighborhood history with the Indo-American Heritage Museum to create a tour of Devon Avenue which will take place on May 16 as part of the 11th Annual Great Chicago Places & Spaces (GCPS) festival .

Kumbha Mela

2009-03-06T17:38:00.011-06:00

Anyone who's visited West Ridge knows that our Devon Avenue offers the experience of a trip to the Subcontinent, minus the inconvenience of an international flight. And, as we've mentioned before, the word "bungalow" has deeps roots in India: in Gujarati it's known as bangalo, from Hindi, bangla is a "low, thatched house," and the term "Bengalese," is used to describe a "house in the Bengal style."

On Friday I was the guest of members of our local Indo American Heritage Museum at the opening event for this wonderful photography exhibit:

Sacred Waters: India’s Great Kumbha Mela Pilgrimage, March 6 — July 19, 2009

Journey to India with photographer Jean-Marc Giboux, and discover the creativity and splendor of the largest human gathering on earth, the Kumbha Mela pilgrimage.

Four times every 12 years, for just a few weeks, enormous and vibrant communities form at rivers believed to transform into divine nectar. Witness these fleeting, joyful gatherings, and discover their dazzling processions, theatrical performances, and the athletic and devotional practices of holy men. Then, proceed with the pilgrims to the culmination of their journey—a bath in sacred waters.

Through photographer Giboux's arresting images, glimpse the diversity of India and the complexities of Hindu religious life, on display at The Field Museum.

On another note, only vaugely related to bungalows (see November 11, 2008 post), while at this event I was excited to see Maria Pinto, Mrs. Obama's couturier of choice, looking every bit the designer in a fab, fitted green suit.

Window Box meeting on March 5th

2009-02-26T15:50:00.009-06:00

Join the Northtown Garden Society for their next meeting on Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 7:00 PM. Neighbors Ann Glapa and Jo Stavig will give a slide presentation called "Beautiful Window Boxes All Year Long". Please note that the meeting will take place at the Northtown Public Library 6435 N. California. There is plenty of street parking.

And, check out Jo's website, Urban Prairie Planters with window boxes cleverly named after our local streets. That's one of her custom container styles (the Washtenaw, I believe) in the photo above.

West Ridge Bungalow Worms

2009-02-22T13:03:00.012-06:00

Last Thursday we had a full house at the North Town Library to listen to our garden panel speak. (Thanks again to David, John, Chris and Kim -- you all rocked our landscaping worlds, and Kim, I will never forget your "parsley around the roast" description of the typical Chicago front yard evergreens!)

There was a lively discussion of all things green, but when John mentioned worm composting I didn't hear much of a response.

At the risk of never having anyone accept a dinner invitation to our house again, allow me to introduce you to the smallest and hardest working members of our household -- the worms.

I first learned of worm composting via this great online booklet offered by the Shedd Aquarium.
Later, I met up with Master Composter Ruth Melulis who set me up with my first little colony of Red Wigglers. They've been living happily in our pantry even since.

See that grey plastic bin? That's it, right next to the rest of our recycling containers. That's where they live. They're not messy or smelly, and in the winter it's definitely more convenient to slip food scraps to the worms than walking them out to the compost bin.

Come on neighbors, if New Yorkers can do it, so can you.

Dreaming of spring...

2009-02-15T18:29:00.004-06:00

Bungalow Garden and Landscape Design meeting this Thursday

Greetings Bungalow Neighbors,
Our first meeting of the year is on February 19 (Thursday), 7:00 p.m. at the Northtown Public Library, 6435 N. California Ave. We have a stellar panel of landscaping and garden design experts who will be talking about designing for small bungalow yards/gardens, and answering our questions:

Panel:
John Eskandari is the Buyer/Manager of the Trees & Shrubs department at Gethsemane Garden Center in Andersonville, where he shares his passion for woody plant material with clients. John is also an instructor at Northwestern University’s Landscape Design & Management program, teaching classes on Sustainable Landscape Design and Succeeding with Plants.

Chris Gent's beautiful West Ridge bungalow garden, complete with ponds, was featured on a past Northtown Garden Society Garden Walk. Chris is a registered Landscape Architect and works as Deputy Director of Planning and Development for the Chicago Park District.

David Gianneschi currently works as a horticulturalist for Hoerr Schaudt, and is known for his talent in creating distinctive planting designs that harmonize with the design intent of a landscape and the bio-region of the site. David's career has also included freelance landscape design, workshop presentations for the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association, and serving as Technical Advisor for HGTV's "The Seasoned Gardener".

Kim Kaulas (Kim Kaulas Inc., Landscape Design and Installation) has designed many gardens in West Ridge and neighboring areas, and is a popular speaker with garden groups on topics such as year-round landscaping and small space gardening. Kim has taught at the Chicago Botanic Garden for many years, and will be teaching a new course on 'Bungalow Garden Design' for the Botanic Garden at the Lincoln Park Cultural Center later this year.

Please join us for this special evening, and be sure to bring all your bungalow garden questions!
Jo & Maribeth, WRBN Co-chairs

Winter in WR

2009-01-15T11:22:00.004-06:00

We're having record low temperatures here in Chicago and everyone I know has had more than their fill of winter. Witness the layers of snow on our patio table and bird feeder that grows taller by the day...

WRBN Holiday Party on Saturday 1/17

2009-01-03T12:38:00.003-06:00

Join WRBN at our 5th annual progressive potluck party starting at 5:30pm on Saturday, 1/17/09. Three WRBN members will open their homes and we'll travel between them feasting on appetizers, chili, and desserts. Home locations will be revealed after you RSVP to mbrewer@rcn.com .

Please let us know what you'll bring when you reply - appetizers, chili, a side dish or a dessert.

Ice and soft drinks will be provided, otherwise bring your own beverage of choice.

Paper and plastic will be available, but in an effort to "green" our party we encourage everyone to bring your own reusable glasses, plates and flatware.

Your $15.00 per household 2009 WRBN dues will be collected at the door.

Best wishes for 2009!
Jo & Maribeth
WRBN Co-chairs

Doors & Limestone detail

2008-12-28T14:17:00.011-06:00

Today I was finally able to take a walk around the neighborhood without the fear of snow, ice, torrential rain or high winds. Like it or not, winter in Chicago offers a little something for eveyone. Enjoy these shots of limestone details on buildings around the 6700 blocks of Artesian, Campbell and Maplewood.

Holiday lights and confused robins

2008-12-21T08:56:00.013-06:00

If only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun, who goes out in 20 below temps at 7:00am on a Sunday? That would be me, on my way to work this morning. I made a quick detour off of my regular route to swing by Carter and Donna's place on the 5800 block of N. Washtenaw in hopes of getting a good shot of the fab illuminated peace sign they've suspended in a tree in front of their house. Look closely and you'll see it hanging over the car, drive by at night for the full effect.

After exiting the parking garage at Soldier Field I spotted the first robins of...winter?

And once inside, the warm glow of more holiday lights in a magnificent Chicago 1920s landmark building. Definitely worth the trip.

Teco or no?

2008-12-20T10:55:00.016-06:00

This week I had the pleasure of meeting with Silvia, the daughter of architect Edward P. Steinberg. Mr. Steinberg designed one of my favorite buildings on Devon Avenue shown in the photo above. This structure was built in 1929-30 for a man by the name of Tilensky and features some wonderful terra cotta details including charming owls perched over the entrance. Check it out next time you're on Devon, it's at the corner of Claremont.

The Steinberg family lived in this building that Edward designed and built on Winchester in Rogers Park. It's currently on the market, you can see a virtual tour here. That's Larry in the photo, he's another Steinberg relative that I met in the fall. Larry & Silvia are both so nice and each told me some great stories about growing up in Rogers Park.

So, what about the Teco, you ask? Well, when I met with Silvia, she had this big urn in her front hallway serving as an umbrella stand. When we were talking about the old place in Rogers Park, Silvia told us that this piece, along with its mate in storage in her basement were originally at the entrance of the family home. Look at the photo of the building and you can just imagine them there.

Silvia has always wondered if these are Teco pottery. We managed roll this one over to look at the bottom, no easy feat as it weighs about 50 lbs. There are no marks on the bottom, just a drainage hole. So, you Teco experts out there, what do you think?

Bungalow of shame

2008-12-09T18:48:00.010-06:00

The Ravenswood home of Governor Rod Blagojevich. Nice house. Despicable behavior. Normally I try to keep politics out of this blog, but today's news is just too disgusting to ignore.

All I can say is thank you, Patrick Fitzgerald. Keep working your way down that list.

2008 Driehaus Award Winners

2008-12-08T18:05:00.002-06:00

Vist the Sun-Times for for information about the rest of the winners.

The Chicagoan: A Lost Magazine of the Jazz Age

2008-12-01T18:13:00.008-06:00

Date: Wed. December 10, 2008
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Harold Washington Library Center

Cindy Pritzker Auditorium

400 S. State Street 60605

The Chicago Public Library welcomes Neil Harris in discussion of his soon-to-be-released book The Chicagoan: A Lost Magazine of the Jazz Age.

Now then, where were we?

2008-11-12T13:02:00.012-06:00

Whew! It's been quite a fall and I'm afraid the blog has suffered a bit from the flurry of election activities in West Ridge and beyond. Neighbors were out in force canvassing in neighboring states, distributing flyers, calling and working on election day. And -- did you know our 44th President has a Chicago bungalow connection? Yes, Michelle Robinson Obama grew up in a brick bungalow on the south side.

So, as we regroup and focus on WRBN again, please join us tomorrow night as we plan our 2009 meetings and events - your input is welcomed and appreciated!

(Chicago Tribune photo of banners downtown.)

Rosehill tour on Saturday, October 11th

2008-10-10T16:49:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow is the WRBN tour of Rosehill Cemetery -- it's going to be a beautiful fall day so come on out, enjoy the weather and learn some history from our local expert Mary Oellrich while you're at it.

These photos are from the interior of the mausoleum, where John G. Shedd and many other notable Chicagoans are interred.

Cubs Pride

2008-09-21T16:56:00.008-05:00

A proud neighbor on the 6600 block of Maplewood displays a Cubs banner as the team heads into the playoffs.

Did you know that legendary Cubs catcher, "dangerous hitter" and Hall of Famer Charles "Gabby" Hartnett lived in West Ridge in a home at the corner of Talman and Albion in the 1930s?

Doors of West Ridge

2008-09-20T20:28:00.005-05:00

New West Ridge book and Historic District

2008-09-20T08:39:00.005-05:00

Rogers Park / West Ridge Historical Society and West Ridge Bungalow Neighbors invite you to a celebration of the newly crated Talman West Ridge Bungalow National Historic District and the release of the new book Images of America: West Ridge

Tuesday, September 23, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Northtown Public Library, 6435 N. California Avenue, Chicago

Authors Jamie Santoro and Jacque Day will be on hand to discuss their new book Images of America: West Ridge. Books will be available for sale, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting RP/WRHS. (Look here for a nice article about the book from the News-Star.)

Greg & Maribeth Brewer and Jofrid Stavig of WRBN as well as representatives of the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association will talk about the newly nominated Talman West Ridge Bungalow Historic District*. Learn the history of the homes in this area and what it means to be part of a National Register Historic District. (The photo is from our September 12th presentation to the State for approval of the district at the beautiful Veterans Memorial Hall in Rockford.)

*The Talman West Ridge National Register Bungalow Historic District encompasses the 6600 block of N. Fairfield, the 2700 block of W. North Shore, the 6600 block of N. Washtenaw, the 6400, 6500, 6600 and 6700 blocks of N. Talman, the 2600 and 2700 blocks of W. Albion, the 6500 block of N. Rockwell, the 2500 block of W. Arthur, the 6500 block of N. Maplewood and the West side of the 6500 block of N. Campbell.

Tradional Building Show

2008-09-07T09:41:00.004-05:00

The Traditional Building Show is coming to Navy Pier on September 18-20. Click here for details. Attendees will find a wealth of resources for owners of historic homes.

Getting ready for fall

2008-09-06T17:36:00.003-05:00

It's been a big weekend for home improvement projects on our block - here's our neighbor up the street preparing to do some planting.

New coppper

2008-09-06T17:30:00.003-05:00

It doesn't show very well in my photos, but a neighbor on Campbell is having new copper gutters installed today. She said these are replacing the original copper gutters from the 1920s. They're a big investment, but should last another 80 years and no painting required.

Power washing!

2008-09-06T17:24:00.004-05:00

Today our neighbor has a crew of guys working on power washing his bungalow. (They had to cut down the old evergreen shrubs to get to the front of the house.) This is where they stopped for a lunch break, you can see the dramatic before and after results.

Words to live by

2008-08-18T15:34:00.003-05:00

Today I received a mailing from the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust. In reading through it, I came across a quote that seemed like a good summary of why we're passionate about preservation:

When you strip away the rhetoric, preservation is simply having the good
sense to hold on to things that are well designed, that link us with our
past in a meaningful way, and that have plenty of good use left in them.

Help preserve our neighborhood history

2008-08-16T18:46:00.005-05:00

The Rogers Park / West Ridge Historical Society is in a year of transition, and needs your help.

Society founder Mary Jo Doyle passed away in December and during the past 7 months the new board has been busy working to ensure the longevity of the Society. One of the most daunting tasks is the organization and preservation of the archives. When I joined the board in January, I learned that the existing archives were in dire need of attention. Little did I know of the 3 truckloads lying in wait at Mary Jo's house, or of the mountains of cartons and artifacts in storage at another off-site location.

The good news is that we have a wealth of documents and photos that tell the story of our local history. The bad news is that they're all jumbled together and need to be sorted and cataloged.

Please consider volunteering at the RP/WRHS to help with archive sorting. It's fun to see all of the old documents and photos, you'll feel good knowing that you're preserving them for future generations to enjoy.

2226 W. Pratt

2008-08-09T16:10:00.005-05:00

Not the best photo, but this neighborhood house was open for an estate sale this weekend. It's huge, 15 rooms and 3.5 baths. The listing sheet says it was built in 1914. It has incredible wood details and built-ins, but needs some work. (Where are those Flipping Out boys when you need them?)

In doing some quick research on ProQuest (thank you, Chicago Public Library) I came up with this string of owners:

1919 Eugene R. Hutchins (owner of Hutchins Lumber and Storage), 1925 Frank E. Scholl (nope, sorry, not the famous Dr. Scholl) 1950s Dr. William Brams, a noted heart specialist and in the 1960s an artist by the name of Hertha Furth.

Developers with tear-down dollar signs in their eyes should just keep on driving west to Schaumburg.

Things are looking Up(town)

2008-07-29T14:23:00.003-05:00

Built in 1925, the Uptown Theater has been down and out for more years than I can remember. I was happy to read this story in the Tribune today and this one in Crain's detailing the purchase of the theater by Jam Productions. Here's hoping we'll be seeing a restoration of this legendary building in the near future.

The bungalow goes to court

2008-07-29T08:34:00.003-05:00

Click here for an interesting article about bungalow court communities on the west coast, and view a video on the same topic here .

Bob, Judy & Jan

2008-07-28T08:37:00.006-05:00

Pictured are West Ridge neighbors Bob & Judy Cody with congresswoman Jan Schakowsky at a recent Obama rally at the Broadway Armory. These two recently fought off a brutal attack in their apartment, and are now back and as energetic as ever. Typical of their commitment to the neighborhood, when told that no one showed up to man the 50th Ward table, Bob and Judy immediately volunteered and began distributing the Obama buttons they make at home. Thanks to Shelley for this great photo.

Docents at IBP

2008-07-25T12:13:00.003-05:00

Click here for a nice story about the new docent program at our Indian Boundary Park.

Going, going, gone

2008-07-01T19:30:00.004-05:00

The victim of our summer of crazy storms, a large, old Ash tree on the 6660 block of N. Rockwell threatens to split in half and is taken down by Streets and San.

West Ridge bungalows in the news

2008-06-09T11:58:00.003-05:00

Visit Crain's Chicago Business for a nice article about WRBNeighbors Bob Kressin and Jo Staivg.

As you'll read, Bob currently lives in a bungalow in Westchester, but really likes West Ridge and hopes to move back to the city soon . He's been a regular at our events and we hope he'll find the home of his dreams in our neighborhood.

40 days and 40 nights

2008-06-09T08:12:00.002-05:00

It seems like it's been raining forever -- all garden projects in the neighborhood are on hold until things dry out a little. The water in the wheelbarrow is from the downpour last night, it's become my impromptu rain gauge while out of commission waiting for tire repair.

The concrete chunks in the background are from a neighbor's patio and will be recycled as stepping stones in our corner garden.

Frank Glapa, Roycroft coppersmith

2008-05-26T09:41:00.002-05:00

Click here to watch our neighbor Frank in action in a Roycroft class in East Aurora, New York, recently featured in the New York Times.

The bungalow, Chicago style

2008-05-19T16:33:00.003-05:00

Visit yet another Flikr group for photos of bungalows around Chicagoland...

Broken Bungalow

2008-05-17T13:06:00.004-05:00

Here's a photo from my new Flickr friends, Broken Bungalow.

The live in the neighborhood in the 6100 block of Maplewood, and judging from their photos have been living la vida loca with all of their rehab work. Take a look, you're sure to see some painfully familiar scenes.

Corner Gardens Project

2008-05-13T17:15:00.008-05:00

Here's our Corner Gardens Project mascot/ supervisor, Lucy.

Lucy invites you to join members of WRBN, North Side Alliance, West Rogers Park Community Organization and the North Town Garden Society as we work together to create corner gardens all over West Ridge.

Would you like your corners planted? Join us for a meeting at Sukhadias restaurant, 2559 W. Devon this Thursday at 7:00 p.m. Lucy won't be there, but lots of hard-working volunteers will!

West Ridge neighborhood house tour

2008-05-05T18:12:00.003-05:00

The Rogers / Park West Ridge house tour took place over the weekend. It was a glorious spring day, and a big success with over 100 attendees. Thanks to all of the homeowners and volunteers who helped make it happen!

Here's homeowner Van Soil on the day of the tour, showing off drawings by the orignal owner and builder of his home, architect Benedict Bruns. Mr. Bruns built his home on Rockwell in 1919, and was responsible for the design of many bungalows in our neighborhood and throughout Chicago.

Welcome Spring!

2008-05-04T08:40:00.002-05:00

A beautiful garden on W. Albion near Campbell.

Does your place matter?

2008-05-01T16:01:00.003-05:00

This is a very cool campaign, let's get some West Ridge photos in the online gallery!

MAY IS PRESERVATION MONTH: THIS PLACE MATTERS

The National Trust for Historic Preservation commemorates its fourth annual National Preservation Month in May with the theme: This Place Matters. Please join us in celebrating our country's diverse and irreplaceable heritage by participating in local events throughout the nation. Whether you are a historic homeowner, a heritage traveler, or a community planner or educator, opportunities abound for celebrating the unique culture and traditions of different areas of this country. Share your memories of the places that matter to you by participating in the This Place Matters photo campaign. Download the sign, take a picture and follow these simple instructions. View the online gallery of the places that matter to others.

Signs of Spring

2008-04-17T17:56:00.002-05:00

Or, another way to recycle bungalow windows found in the alley (too wrecked to use as windows). Jo Stavig and Steve Knoebber built the cold frame & the plants are 'hardening off' quite nicely. They get air thru the top but stay warm enough.

On the market

2008-04-11T18:36:00.008-05:00

We'll be very sorry to see them go, but some some lucky person will be the happy new owner of neighbors Ron and Marty Thomas' lovely home that they'll soon be vacating to move back to the east coast. Ron and Marty hosted a fun tour of their home for WRBN last month, and I think we all suffered serious bungalow envy. To learn more about this great property for sale or to just steal some decorating tips courtesy of Ron and Marty, click here.

Our 15 minutes of fame

2008-04-11T13:40:00.005-05:00

Click here to read about yours truly, co-chair Jo Stavig, and all the news that's fit to print about the past, present and future of WRBN. Thanks to Lorraine and Sandy at the Chicago Journal / News-Star for a great story, and to Josh Hawkins for the photo taken in the 6700 block of N. Talman.

Swap Meet!

2008-04-09T21:53:00.005-05:00

Yes, it's finally time for the swap meet. Time to clean out the garage, basement and your other hiding places and bring it all in to the North Town Public Library, tomorrow night at 7:00 p.m. See the events listing on this page for more details. Here's George again, showing off just just one of the fine items that could be yours...

George Glastris: WRBN member, collector, klutz

2008-03-22T17:10:00.004-05:00

George Glastris made his biggest mistake on the first day of a dream job he landed right out of college. He was at a top auction house in London and his first task was to put away a very rare and very large Edison phonograph from 1890. But George ended up dropping it. Although he's still clumsy, George turned his embarrassment into a lifelong passion. He now owns 25 vintage phonographs, and he's still in search of the one he dropped to add to his collection.
See a photo of the type of phonograph George dropped, and listen to the full story here.

A gem of a bungalow in Avalon

2008-03-22T11:37:00.003-05:00

Stay tuned for details and photos of this exceptional bungalow in the Avalon neighborhood, recently visited by West Ridge neighbors Jo, Steve, Ann & Frank .

North Lake Shore Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 12

2008-03-19T09:35:00.001-05:00

Save the Date - Taking care of the Earth is a collaborative effort. In that spirit, the north side communities of Andersonville, Edgewater, Ravenswood, Rogers Park, Uptown and West Ridge have joined forces with Loyola University Chicago to host the first North Lake Shore Earth Day Celebration scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2008 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. at Loyola University Chicago, Quinlan Life Sciences Building at 1060 W. Sheridan Road.
More than 15 workshops and panels explore every aspect of caring for the environment—globally and locally—to empower Chicagoans to take action in making the world greener.

Featured keynote speakers include Loyola’s own Al Gini, NPR personality and ethics professor; Debra Shore, wilderness advocate and Commissioner for the Water Reclamation District; Alderman Mary Ann Smith; and Suzanne Malec-McKenna, Commissioner for Chicago’s Department of the Environment.

Air quality issues, power, energy-free transport, global warming, carbon emissions and the health of Lake Michigan are the focus of the global issues addressed in the morning sessions. Shopping green, organic gardening, native planting, home energy conservation, running a green business, recycling and green parenting in the afternoon sessions help Chicagoans put ideas into action.

A Green Fair with more than 50 associations and businesses represented will be running throughout the day. As a special feature, tours will be given of Loyola’s LEED-certified Information Commons and Bio-Diesel lab.

Children’s programming, crafts, and an audio-visual orchestra with an interactive, environmental symphony celebrate nature’s effect on the senses.
Food will be provided. The event and parking on campus are free to the public.

Bungalow Planter Seminar on Wednesday 3/19

2008-03-17T15:51:00.005-05:00

Did you know Spring officially begins this week? Have you started your gardening plans yet?

Come hear our West Ridge neighbor Jo Stavig speak about bungalow planter boxes at the Sulzer Regional Library 4455 N. Lincoln, 7pm.

Jo is one of the featured speakers in the HCBA Bungalow Seminar Series. Visit the HCBA event calendar for more information, and visit Jo's Urban Prairie Planters website to view her fabulous designs.

Chicago Green Homes Fair: March 15, 2008

2008-03-01T08:36:00.003-06:00

Come explore how you can create a more environmentally-friendly home for you and your family. Whether you're planning to remodel or just want to learn what's new on the green building scene, spend some time meeting vendors and retailers with sustainable products to help you make a greener home.

Event details
Saturday, March 15, 2008
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Chicago Center for Green Technology
445 N. Sacramento Blvd.

Admission is free and guided tours of the Chicago Center for Green Technology will occur throughout the day.

Two courses happening during the day are:
Historic Chicago Greystone Initiative
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
The Historic Chicago Greystone Initiative offers a mix of financial, technical, and historic preservation programming. One of the key goals of this program is to help homeowners identify ways to green their historic greystones. Participants will learn to make their homes more energy efficient, address indoor air quality and other health issues, and how to incorporate sustainable building materials into home improvement.

Green Home Remodeling Guides - An Overview
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Planning a green home project this year? Join Meghann Maves as she introduces you to the City of Chicago's Green Home Remodeling Guides. This series of guides offers information on how to hire green professionals, paint and remodel kitchens, baths & laundry rooms, and how to salvage and reuse materials. This seminar is for the homeowner looking to create an environmentally-friendly remodel.

For more information, download the flyer below or call the Chicago Center for Green Technology at (312) 746-9642.

Chicago Green Homes Fair Flyer

Beat the Spring rush - get your rain barrel now!

2008-02-29T12:44:00.003-06:00

The Metro Water Reclamation District sells rain barrels the 1st Tuesday of the month from 3 to 7. They're available to any City of Chicago resident for $40.00 each at the District's facility on Howard. Available in sky blue or black.

To reserve your barrel and for more information visit http://www.mwrd.org/

Pergolas, anyone?

2008-02-28T08:19:00.005-06:00

I received an email today from Costco. They now carry a really nice collection of pergola kits, perfect for a bungalow back yard. Visit their website to see what's on offer. That's one of them in the photo.

A call for tour homes and gardens

2008-02-26T16:15:00.003-06:00

The Rogers Park / West Ridge Historical Society is finalizing plans for their annual House Tour to be held on Sunday, May 4, 2008. This is their biggest fundraiser of the year, and they are still are in need of a few more homes and / or gardens to round out the tour. If you live within the boundaries of Devon to Pratt, Western to California please consider supporting the Society by opening your home or garden for this popular neighborhood event.

Speaking as a former host homeowner, the tour is a lot of fun to participate in. The Society also ensures that it is safe and secure experience for the homeowner. For more information, please contact me at mbrewer@rcn.com no later than Friday, February 29.

Feburary 14th WRBN Meeting

2008-02-04T20:18:00.000-06:00

Greetings Bungalow Neighbors!
Our first meeting of the year is coming up, so mark your calendars for

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 7:00PM at the Northtown Library, 6435 N. California.

Romancing the Fireplace

What could be more romantic than snuggling with your sweetie by a bungalow fireplace?

Fake, real, or on your wish list, the fireplace is a hot topic with bungalow owners.
Join us on Valentine's Day as Paul from Evanston’s Northshore Fireplace answers our questions about converting decorative to functional, ventless vs. vented, woodburning vs. gas, and the care and feeding of our fireboxes, surrounds, chimneys, and mantels.
Sweet treats will be served!

Jo & Maribeth

Bungalow & Home Improvement Business Fair

2008-02-03T15:16:00.000-06:00

This isn't taking place in our neighborhood, but sounds like it could be worth checking out.

The Pulaski Elston Business Association, in conjunction with Alderman Margaret Laurino & Alderman Patrick Levar invite you to attend the 3rd Annual Bungalow& Home Improvement Business Fair.

Sunday, March 9, 2008
8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

St. Edwards Church
4343 W. Sunnyside Avenue (Lower Level), Chicago
Parking is available

Complimentary refreshments will be served

For more information contact Dawn D'Amico at 773-545-0941
or email Peba02ddamico@aol.com

Snow storm

2008-02-02T18:19:00.000-06:00

Bungalow on the 6700 block of N. Rockwell, post snow storm, with the traditional parking place-holding chair in the street.

Devon Avenue makes the 2008 Preservation Chicago "Chicago Seven" list

2008-01-29T21:25:00.000-06:00

Kudos to Preservation Chicago for including our historic 1920 -30s Devon commercial district buildings on their 2008 "Chicago Seven" list. Click here for the full story.

Chicago Zoning and 'The French Embassy"

2008-01-27T17:48:00.000-06:00

The real zoning code in Chicago is unwritten, but developers know it well: Changes in zoning go hand in hand with contributions to aldermanic campaigns.

Click here for an excellent piece from the Chicago Tribune on how abuse of zoning changes threaten our historic neighborhoods.

The history of St. James Church

2008-01-20T17:45:00.000-06:00

After a canvass made during the winter of 1925 and the spring of 1926 by members of the Evangelical Synod of North America (a denomination made up primarily of German immigrants) it was determined that the Western and Devon area was home to a large number of persons with a heritage in the Evangelical denomination who did not have a convenient church home.

In 1926, that denomination's Home Mission Board purchased a lot at the corner of Rockwell and Albion and contracted with the Rev. Alfred F. Schemmer as an organizing minister, a service was held in the display room of the Ford Sales Company at the south-west corner of Arthur and Western on Sunday September 26, 1926 at 2:30 in the afternoon. About 125 persons attended from the city's other Evangelical Churches. At the service, an offering of $40.00 was collected and given to the Rev. Schemmer to rent a space for a temporary place of worship.

The following week Schemmer rented a store at 2644 Pratt Avenue and on Sunday October 3, 1926, the first worship service of what would become St. James was held with 8 or 10 adults present and 13 children in the Sunday school. More...

Finding the best CFL bulbs

2008-01-19T10:39:00.000-06:00

I hate the light from CFL bulbs, and taking an informal poll at our WRBN holiday party last week tells me I'm not alone. The free one I got from the City casts an ugly green-grey pallor in our office. The ones I bought from Home Depot do the same for the basement, but who really cares what old paint cans and litter boxes look like.

A recent New York Times article gives me hope that one day I will be able to happily replace the rest of the bulbs in our home with something that I like. Click here for the full story.

Who is Richard Driehaus and why does he love Chicago bungalows?

2008-01-17T14:02:00.000-06:00

For the answer to this question and more, click here. (See the 7/27/07 post regarding our own West Ridge Driehaus award winners.)

Chicago's Green Bungalows

2008-01-03T20:23:00.000-06:00

Click here to read the the story from the National Trust online magazine that accompanies this lovely photo of Ann & Frank Glapa's front porch! A

little reminder of warmer days...

Where it all began...

2007-12-30T18:30:00.000-06:00

Anyone who has attended a WRBN meeting recently knows we've been slogging our way toward a Bungalow Historic District nomination. It feels like it's been years, because it has. With the help of many people, we've transcribed the 1930 Census for the area in question, which has changed several times during the process. A team of volunteers has photographed over 240 homes and a bunch of garages. We've spent hours at the UIC library looking at ancient building permits on microfiche, and even more hours sifting through all of this data and making sense out of it. And now - we're headed into home stretch. Really.

In honor of the near-completion of our District, our bungalow of the week (on the right hand side of this page) is 6527 N. Maplewood. This is the very first brick bungalow built in our district in 1919. Also built in 1919 at 6529 N. Rockwell is what we now know as a Bungalow Antecedent - not quite an "official" Chicago brick bungalow, but close enough. It's the stucco home shown in the photo above.

Another frame, single family home on a double lot at 6550 N. Rockwell was built by architect Benedict Bruns in 1919. Bruns designed bungalows all over the West Ridge, and this was his family home until 1927. You know the house, it's just south of the St. James Presbyterian church on at Rockwell and Albion, with the double lot and lovely gardens in the summer.

The fourth home built in our district in 1919 sadly is categorized as "Non-Contributing". It has been altered to the point of not being recognizable as a historic bungalow.

Bungalow, deconstructed

2007-12-11T12:05:00.000-06:00

So, you might recall the September 18, 2007 post about the Art Enables organization. On the left is our finished bungalow portrait, you can click on it to see the detail.

I love this sort of flattened, deconstructed rendering, and the level of detail our artist Vanessa included. I laughed when I saw my least favorite part of the house lovingly illustrated - the 60s lannon stone filling in the place on our front porch wall where 3 stained glass windows used to be.

At the moment one of our cats has chosen the painting as his nap spot...time to get this into a frame!

Holiday lights in the 1920s

2007-11-28T15:56:00.000-06:00

The whimsical packaging on this 1920s set of lights suggests that in addition to Christmas trees, they may also be used for May Parties, the 4th of July and what appears to be quite the Thanksgiving day hoe-down (click on image to enlarge).

For more info on 1920s holiday lighting, visit this cool website.

And, don't forget our own holiday shindig. There will not be a December WRBN meeting, but mark your calendar now for our Saturday, January 12th WRBN members-only holiday party! Your $15.00 (per family) 2008 dues payment is your ticket to the food and festivities. Invitations are on the way...

Polish Christmas Celebration on 12/4/07

2007-11-28T15:42:00.000-06:00

International Visitors Center of Chicago Annual Meeting & Holiday Party

Join the IVCC staff, Board of Directors and members for a Polish Christmas Vigilia Celebration! Tuesday, December 4, 2007 6:00-8:00pm, Polish Museum of America, 984 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60622 Enjoy the holiday exhibits including a turn-of- the-century replica of a traditional village hut and beautifully decorated Christmas trees.

The party will include Polish hors d'ouevres and desserts, wine and Polish holiday traditions including a Christmas Carol sing-along led by the museum staff! Mr. Jan Lorys, Director of the Museum (and WRBN member), will tell a special tale of Christmas in Poland!

Cost: IVCC Members, $25; Non-members, $30To RSVP, please contact Lexy Sobel by Friday, November 30th to (312) 254-1800 x102 or Lsobel@ivcc.org.

Teco Pottery reproductions

2007-11-28T15:11:00.000-06:00

Bring clean geometric shapes and rich color into your home with the Teco Art Pottery Collection™. The classic designs of the originals are maintained in these authentic reproductions of art pottery vases from the legendary 20th century studio. Made in the US with a water-tight, satin-finish glaze. Available from Room and Board. Read about the history of Teco Pottery here.