What if I told you West Ridge has a secret origin story tied to a cabbage war? This vibrant Chicago community area, also known as West Rogers Park or North Town, wasn’t always part of the Windy City. Let’s journey back to the 19th century.
West Ridge was once a collection of farms and open prairie. German and Luxembourger farmers tilled the soil. The community of Ridgeville grew around Ridge and Devon Avenues. Imagine horse-drawn carts and the scent of fresh produce filling the air. St. Henry’s Roman Catholic Church was a central landmark.
Rogers Park bordered West Ridge. A dispute arose over taxes for local improvements. This conflict became known as the Cabbage War. The residents of West Ridge seceded and became their own village in 1890.
West Ridge was annexed to Chicago in 1893. However, unlike Rogers Park, West Ridge didn’t experience immediate growth. The population remained small until after 1900. Residents relied on neighboring areas for goods and services.
The early 1900s brought change to West Ridge. Brickyards moved into the area taking advantage of clay deposits. The North Shore Channel’s construction increased clay availability. Workers from across Chicago flocked to West Ridge.
World War I spurred a real estate boom. Brick bungalows and two-flats sprung up. The population boomed. By 1930, West Ridge had almost 40,000 residents. Devon Avenue became a thriving business district.
West Ridge continued to grow during the 1930s. Despite growth, it remained primarily residential. The Granville Garden Apartments, a large construction project, helped meet housing demands.
After World War II, West Ridge saw another surge of growth. Jewish residents moved from other parts of Chicago. They were joined by Russian and Polish Jews. Today, West Ridge is known for its diversity.
West Ridge is home to many ethnic groups. You’ll find Jewish, Middle Eastern, Indian, Pakistani, and Korean influences here. Devon Avenue reflects this diversity with its many shops and restaurants.
West Ridge has a fascinating history from its rural beginnings to its diverse present. It’s a community shaped by farmers, brickyard workers, and immigrants. The Cabbage War might be a quirky footnote, but it reflects the independent spirit of West Ridge. Today, West Ridge is a thriving middle-class neighborhood. It boasts historic mansions and cultural institutions like St. Scholastica Academy. West Ridge stands as a testament to Chicago’s diverse and ever-evolving story.