From White City To The Ridge, Ridge Historical Center Honors Architect Harry Hale Waterman

CHICAGO – Architect Harry Hale Waterman was just 23 years old in 1892 when he started to build some of his most memorable buildings on the Ridge. Waterman’s life and legacy are the subject of Ridge Historical Society's current exhibit, "Harry Hale Waterman: Unique in any Style," which continues to the end of September.

More than a year since its opening, exhibit curator Tim Blackburn was able to connect with Waterman family members over the summer to gain new insights to the life and work of the prolific architect and to secure Waterman family photos that are being added to exhibit.

In addition to viewing the exhibit at RHS, 10621 S. Seeley Ave., during regular open hours, 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Sundays, the final encore of the popular program “WATERMAN: From the White City to the Ridge,” will be presented Fri., Sept. 19 at 7 p.m.

In the program, Blackburn will discuss how influences from the Columbian Exposition can be seen on the Ridge today, including through buildings designed by Harry Hale Waterman. He will also share updates from his recent visit with Waterman’s great-granddaughter and eight additional Waterman photos from her. Architectural photographer Mati Maldre will also discuss his photos of thirty Waterman buildings, primarily taken in the mid-1980s.

The Waterman exhibit will be open during Beverly Art Walk, Sat., Sept. 27, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can learn more about the history of the Waterman-designed Eugene S. Pike House, which the arts alliance plans to turn into a community center.

Tickets to “WATERMAN: From the White City to the Ridge” are $20 ($10 for RHS members). For reservations, email ridgehistory@hotmail.com or call 773-881-1675. Admission is free during the Beverly Art Walk and for regular RHS open hours.

~ Contributed by Grace Kuikman