A look at historical short sighted real estate decisions made by the City of Chicago on Karlov, Komensky, Kedvale and Keeler Avenues on the West Side. duration: 5 min, 48 sec. credits: google maps, no profit intended.
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Chicago West Side Past and Present
Video and Pictorial Study of all of Chicago's West Side
I grew up in Chicago on the west side from the 1950s – 1960s between South 31st and 26th St. (between Kostner Ave and Pulaski) This area was known then and now as the South Lawndale District.
During that time, 26th St. had a “booming” shopping area. This area met the needs of middle America. By most standards, it was a great shopping district, that went on for miles. You could buy: High and/or low end, clothing, shoes, millinary (hats), home goods, furniture etc. There was decor for your home as well as auto repair stations, men’s work boots, jeans and work clothing. Hardware and drugstores were available, and any incidentals you might need or could imagine… There were several Banking & Loan Institutions located on 26th St. as well. Further east, (near Kedzie Ave), you could find anything else you might need at Goldblatts, one of the biggest dept. stores in the Chicagoland area (with 5/6 floors) that carried everything imaginable. In my mind, Goldblatts was equivalent (maybe better) than Sears Roebuck — Goldblatts carried everything from sewing fabric to work tools. However, Goldblatts did not have a catalogue sales like Sears.
I have fond memories of growing up here.
Thanks for your thoughts.