Chicago is a city of over 100 unique neighborhoods and community areas. From Edison to Grand Crossing, Humboldt to Hegewisch, the history and culture of each enclave often comes through in its name. In this episode, WBEZ contributors Shermann “Dilla” Thomas and Lisa Labuz delve into the history of how Chicago neighborhoods got their names.
Children participate in the 20th annual Fishing Derby at Humboldt Park on August 3, 1967. Alexander Von Humboldt, German polymath, is the namesake for the Humboldt Park neighborhood despite never having been in Chicago.
Chicago History Museum/ST-10003022-0008, Chicago Sun-Times collection, Chicago History Museum