Roll Through Chicago’s Roller Skating History
by Marcie L. Hill
Did you know that roller skating is one of the most popular sports in the world? It is the only activity that was-and still is-enjoyed by people of all ages, races, genders, and social classes on six of the seven continents.
Did you know it was-and still is-one of the most popular pastimes in Chicago? Roller skating has been in Chicago for 145 years and its full history has never been documented in one place.
Until now.
In Chicago Roller Skating History: 1880-2025, author Marcie Hill takes readers on a journey through more than a century of roller skating in the Windy City, celebrating the rinks, people, and perseverance that has shaped one of America’s most influential skating scenes.
As this book takes you through the twists and turns of roller skating in Chicago, you will learn about
- The 100+ years of the city’s skating history
- The people, places, and events that have shaped the vibrant skate culture that exists today
- Chicago’s influence on the national skating culture
- Black roller skating history in Chicago
Most importantly, you will learn how generations of Chicago skaters have cultivated a community and culture that will be forever remembered and chronicled in the pages of Chicago, American, and world roller skating history.
