The Ridge Historical Society (RHS) presents a new exhibit celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Ridge Historic District’s designation. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, this designation recognized our neighborhood’s incredible heritage and inspired decades of community stewardship. Today, the district serves as an “outdoor museum” of homes and buildings mostly constructed between 1870 and 1930. Because no single style dominates, our streets feature a beautifully diverse mix of classic architecture, ranging from Italianate and Tudor Revival to a world-renowned collection of Prairie School designs.

For decades, the architectural photography of Mati Maldre has been synonymous with our area, shaping how we view our historic surroundings. As a special feature of this anniversary celebration, visitors can experience a comprehensive showcase of his meticulous documentation of the district. The exhibit features photographs of the contributing resources and structures from the original nomination, alongside a curated selection of photos further depicting the Ridge Historic District. Shot primarily in the 1980s for the Beverly Area Planning Association (BAPA) using a Deardorff view camera, his iconic photography brings the defining architectural details and historic character of the community into focus.

The exhibition also features maps and detailed information representing all the historic districts nested inside the Ridge Historic District: Longwood Drive, the Walter Burley Griffin Place District, and the Beverly/Morgan Park Railroad Station.

Exhibit Hours & Location
The exhibit will be open to the public for free on Tuesdays and Sundays, except major holiday weekends, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. through the end of the year.

Ridge Historical Society
10621 S. Seeley Ave., Chicago, IL 60643
773.881.1675