I started inquiring about roller skating in Chicago in 2009 at Markham Roller Rink in Markham, Illinois. Now I am proud to share that my book is almost done after 16 years of progress.
To give you an idea of the magnitude of my project: Chicago’s roller skating history started in the 1880s and continues through today. I don’t have a lot of pictures from researching my sources because they were not available. However, people who ran across my site sent some. Also,
I’m praying that the descendants of rink owners, roller skate manufacturers, skaters and other people in the industry learn about my book and gift photos and video clips.
Work Done to Complete the Book
Here is a summary of the work done in 16 years to bring the book to completion.
- Making countless trips to the library and looking through rolls of microfilm, praying that the machines worked and that the information I was seeking was on those rolls.
- Researching local newspapers on Chicago Public Library’s This goldmine allows library card holders to access tons of information. It also gives you the option to save your searches, which is invaluable. Before last month, I had not visited the site since early 2024. All I had to do was click the saved search and look for the sources I needed.
- Composing, sending and following up on emails that were sent to local and national libraries, cultural institutions and roller skaters requesting information on people, places and events. I’m grateful to the people who responded.
- Approaching strangers and asking them if they roller skated. Many were happy to share their memories.
- Reading hundreds of articles from online and previously published magazines and newspapers available in digital format. I know waaaay more about roller skating than I care to know.
- Conducting roller skating presentations at libraries across Illinois, thanks to the Chicago Writers Association Speakers Bureau. I appreciate my family for taking those long rides with me.
- Asking people to share their memories on my site, Real Skate Stories. Many thanks to the people who responded and shared photos.
- Scheduling and conducting in-person, telephone and virtual interviews with everyone willing to share.
- Watching video clips of past and current skaters and stories about different rinks.
- Compiling information, drafting and revising chapters. And revising some more. I have at least seven drafts of the book.
- Researching and finding an editor who understands my goal and is working on my manuscript as I write this.
Emotions Experienced While Working on the Book
My emotions ran rampant during this time. I agonized over small details. I procrastinated for various reasons. I pushed myself when I felt overwhelmed by the large amount of information I have. I was lonely throughout the process, even though I had cheerleaders and encouragers. I was excited when I completed parts of the project.
The Status of My Book Today
Through it all, though, I never considered giving up because I had put a lot of time, money and effort into the project. And I am now close to completion and super grateful for every lesson learned, relationship gained and challenges overcome on this journey.
Stay tuned for updates on my roller skating masterpiece.