Chicago Roller Skating History: 1880-2005

For nearly 150 years, roller skating has been one of Chicago’s best-kept secrets. In Chicago, it is a lifestyle and a cultural movement. From the city’s first roller rinks in the 1880s to the rise of skating during the global pandemic, Chicago Roller SkatingHistory guides readers through a once-forgotten pastime, spotlighting the people, places, and organizations that have kept the city rolling.

This richly researched book uncovers overlooked details about Chicago’s skating culture-the location of roller rinks, classism and racism, and skating in the Black community.

Perfect for fans of roller skating, African American history, and Chicago culture, Chicago Roller SkatingHistory highlights how skating has influenced the culture and communities in one of America’s greatest cities.