From the President

By: Kathy Gemperle

The time was right and interest was high when we met at the Edgewater Branch Library last January 23rd to form this new historical society. Months have passed and we have now completed our bylaws, elected our board of directors and officers, and embarked on various other projects to move us toward our goals.

We have many wonderful, active committees that have taken our new historical society to several public events in the community, including the Arts in Action Festival at the Broadway Armory, the Chicago Metro History Fair where I served as a judge, and a visit with the 8th graders at Peirce School. 30 people joined us for a walking tour of central Edgewater and 55 people enjoyed the tour of Rosehill Cemetery.

Looking ahead, we are planning an exciting General Meeting on September 24th, featuring storytellers and displays of photographs. Also in September, we will be sponsoring a photo essay - Dawn to Dusk in Edgewater Parks.

In October, the Finance Committee is planning our first fun fund-raising event, "The Brand New Historical Society Auction." We will be auctioning off old but interesting items. Already we have had a donation of an oak humidor and a beautiful tea service. Even small articles like kitchen gadgets and baskets are needed, so begin now to set aside those special items. The auction is set for October 23rd and everyone’s help will be needed to gather and deliver auction items.

Our fund-raising has a purpose - the establishment of an Edgewater collection of historic photos and memorabilia. To aid in the collection of photos, the Edgewater Community Council has generously pledged $1,000 over the next two years. Still to be solved is the location for such a collection, since our public library just doesn’t have the space. But, as they say, where there’s a will, there’s a way.