Christmas in Pilsen circa 1961

In 1961, a Christmas decoration contest was held from Ashland to Western and 16th Street down to the Chicago River for the best decorated yards. I imagine the 1960s were a real transition for the neighborhood, as they Mexicans were immigrating into the neighborhood and the Bohemians were leaving. Even in this article it is evidenced by the last names: Ploskonka of Cullerton Street, Gutierrez of 21st Street, Krch of 21st Street and Zaragoza of 19th Street.

At the time, the newly formed Central West Side Chamber of Commerce participated in boosting the visibility of shopping areas by putting up Christmas decorations along Blue Island Avenue and 18th Street. There was even a traditional Mexican celebration held complete with dinner, games, songs and a pinata!

Chicago Tribune, December 21, 1961.

Comfortable Quarters of the Fast Growing Plzen Bicycle Club

I stumbled upon this article about the Plzen Bicycle Club in the Chicago Daily Tribune dated March 20, 1896. I became mildly obsessed with finding the building pictured in the article, which is described as being located on "Ashland avenue, near Eighteenth street." It goes on to say:

The present location was formerly the home of Dr. Jirka, and has been in the possession of the Plzen club since last spring. It is a ten-room house, with billiard-rooms in the basement and a large assembly hall on the second floor. The Plzen is the only Cycling club in the neighborhood, and has a membership of nearly 200, which is increasing at a rapid rate.

I love coming across these type of articles, especially ones with images of buildings in Pilsen and the written description is helpful too, to give us an idea of the function and layout of these buildings at the time. I have not yet been able to find this building, I think I just have to realize that it's another building that has been demolished.

Another Tax Assessment Freeze in Pilsen!

I just received word on another approval of a tax assessment freeze in Pilsen on 21st Place. The building owner rehabbed a 4-flat over the summer and had ESDC help with the application process. New bathrooms and kitchens were put in, floors were refinished, electrical and plumbing systems were updated and fresh coats of paint were applied. Another great example of preservation working in Pilsen!

Preservation Makes Sense

In this economic climate, it makes sense to re-invest in your property. Especially if you are fortunate enough to own a contributing building in an historic district, like the Pilsen Historic District. Here are some reasons how investing in your historic property helps everyone:

Historic Preservation Creates Jobs Dollar for dollar, historic preservation is one of the highest job-generating economic development options available. It begins by creating construction jobs for the projects and has a great impact on local labor and local suppliers as well. Direct local purchases from retailers and wholesalers is greater, dollar for dollar for a rehab project than a new construction and keeps jobs in the neighborhood most importantly.

Historic Preservation Incentives In Illinois, contributing buildings in historic districts listed on the National Regsiter of Historic Places are eligible for either the Tax Assessment Freeze or the Tax Credit. These incentives will save money for the building owner on property taxes (if it's owner-occupied) or in the form of a federal income tax credit (if it's income-producing). The standards to which a building needs to be rehabbed are pretty reasonable and maintain the historic character of the building.

Prevents Suburban Sprawl Preservation can be used to prevent suburban sprawl through using existing buildings and sites already in place. It's not the only answer, but it saves infrastructure and transportation costs, reduces air pollution and traffic congestion.

Check it out!

Check out this link -- an article on what we are doing with preservation here in Pilsen:

http://www.newcommunities.org/news/articleDetail.asp?objectID=1289

They All Fall Down...

Here's a picture of the building that is (was) part of the St. Paul's church complex just south of Cermak and Damen. This summer we tried to save the building, but to no avail. This building was used early on by the German congregation as a dance hall and meeting place, and most recently for part of the school. The Church has no immediate plans for the lot, only to one day build more space for the school. Until then, it will sit empty.

Thankfully, the St. Paul's church still stands, designed by architect Henry Schlacks (who we think designed the building that was recently demolished). According to the Chicago AIA Guide, the church was completed in two years, with the parishioners donating labor to build the church. This church is also famous, as it was the site for the baptism scene in the first Godfather, as well as scenes in the Untouchables.

Long Gone and Forgotten

Here are two historic photographs, taken from the Chicago Daily Newspaper archives. The first one is facing what is now the 18th Street stop on the Pink Line ca. 1908; the second is at the intersection of 18th Street, Loomis & Blue Island looking south, ca. 1928.

Doors of Pilsen

Quintessential Pilsen Door

This black door is the quintessential two- or three-flat, front door that you see in Pilsen; a wood, multi-paneled, double door with transom. I walk by this door nearly every day to work and love it, especially the original hardware.

Articles on Windows

Windows are such an important element on any building. When rehabbing a building, there are several factors to consider when it comes to windows; condition, repair vs. replace, costs and aesthetics. The following articles are well-researched and hopefully will influence you to repair and add less-expensive storm windows, rather than replace your windows.
Click here for the link