Neighborhood News-The artisanal, vibrant ‘suburb’ of Ravenswood
While not officially one of the 77 Chicago communities, Ravenswood has long been an integral part of the North Side of Chicago. Sandwiched between Lincoln Square, Uptown and North Center, according to the Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, Ravenswood was founded in 1868 as an exclusive commuter suburb by a group of real-estate speculators, and was named for a flock of ravens they saw in the woods surrounding the territory.
These speculators, they said, formed the Ravenswood Land Company and purchased 194 acres of farmland and woods eight miles north of Chicago. Business owners settled on tree-lined streets, east of Ravenswood Avenue and the Chicago & Northwestern/Union Pacific North Line railroad tracks in the Uptown community area. And the Ravenswood community was born. After the extension of the “L” in the early 20th century, Ravenswood continued to grow as new residents built small houses, two-flats, and apartment buildings.
From Industrial to Artisanal in 100 years
For over a century, the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor has been home to one of Chicago’s most vibrant and diverse creative communities. Everyone from metalworkers and brewers to painters and carpenters have laid down roots in Ravenswood. Historic manufacturing centers that once housed giants of industry have been reimagined, each now home to countless talented artisans.
The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce offers services and annual events, including festivals and themed shopping events to help businesses thrive. Special Service Area #31, a local tax district provides funding for expanded services to businesses. And, the GRCC partners with the Ravenswood Community Council,dedicated to promoting community greening, the Ravenswood Farmers Market, and public art.
Malt Row: the ‘King’ of Breweries
Ravenswood is home to ‘Malt Row,’ housing the neighborhood’s breweries, taprooms, and restaurants. The Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce published a guide to the local breweries, including Begyle Brewing, the original tap room, and KOVAL Distillery. For those who prefer wine, Vin312 Winery is nestled at the center of Malt Row.
Ravenswood Sculpture Garden
While the weather is still warm enough to walk, take a trip along Ravenswood Avenue, between Irving Park Road and Lawrence Ave. to the Ravenswood Sculpture Garden, a peaceful setting in a big city, seeing such showstopping pieces as ‘Blind Love, ‘ Flight of the Honey Bee, ‘ and ‘Frog and Toad, ‘ among many others.
Lillstreet Art Center
The center of creativity for Ravenswood since 1975, the Lillstreet Art Center, built from a former horse stable, offers a space to create, connect, and find community. They support the arts through a multifaceted arts education program, year-long artist residencies, art exhibition space, retail sales opportunities for artists, studio rentals, and arts-based professional development. For specific classes and more information about the Center, click here.
Ravenswood Costume Crawl
On Wednesday October 26, businesses along Montrose and Ravenswood Avenues host the Ravenswood Costume Crawl from 5:30pm-8:30pm. Wear your most creative, scary costume for an evening of treats and drinks. Enjoy a fantastic selection of local desserts, candy, and beer and cocktail samples. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 that day. To purchase tickets, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
