The History Story
The Hub opened October 27, 1950 on Harlem Avenue, in an area that at that time
was quite desolate. For those who know Chicago today, this area is now a mass of
malls and shopping activity. At that time there was nothing between the Roller
Rink and Irving Park Road. At the corner of that intersection was The Harlem
Outdoor Theater, and across the street the State Police HQ. South of Irving Park
were some small stores and a few restaurants where many of the Roller Rink
Junkies hung out after closing time.
Today, you can still take the kids to the "Hub" for some family fun... but it is
not a Roller Skating Rink. It is now a fun indoor amusement park called JEEPERS.
The HUB was a Giant in the Roller Rink World, and it was
the home of a Giant Wurlitzer Pipe Organ, originally played by Leon Berry,
recently deceased.
I am Frank Randall,
former Hub employee from around 1952 thru 1957. A marriage and family
responsibilities eventually took me away from the Hub and many of the friends I
had while working there.
This is about the HUB, and all those who made it a Very Special Place, and
for the record this is a picture of Frank and his lovely bride Lida
