Englewood Historical Association Records

In 1931 a group of Englewood residents interested in the history of their neighborhood joined together with the staff of the Hiram Kelly Branch Library to form an organization, “to gather and preserve historical material of the Englewood district of Chicago . . .,” and “to extend its support for the betterment of the community.” By 1941, the organization had incorporated and was known as the Englewood Historical Association (EHA).

The EHA actively collected manuscript materials, newspapers and photographs documenting the neighborhood’s rich historical tradition. From its beginning, the EHA and the Hiram Kelly Branch Library of the Chicago Public Library maintained a close relationship. The EHA held its meetings, stored its materials and received technical advice at the Hiram Kelly Branch Library. In return, the Kelly Branch received title and possession of this unique collection.

Student participation was an important component of the EHA’s sponsored activities. Students from Beale School and Wentworth School participated in the EHA’s junior historical organizations. Moreover, the EHA sponsored the writing of historical essays and sketches about the Englewood neighborhood.