Artists Commemorate Chicago’s 1919 Race Riot with Glass Memorials
The Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project has dedicated years to installing memorials across the city, honoring those who lost their lives during the historic event. The latest installations were unveiled during a walking tour in the Loop on Saturday.
Remembering a Forgotten Victim
For most, the intersection of Adams Street and Wabash Avenue is a busy spot near the Chicago Theatre, Grant Park, and the Art Institute. But for Paul Hardwick, it was where his life ended over a century ago. An African American man, Hardwick was on his way to work at the Palmer House hotel when he was pursued by a mob of about 30 white attackers. He was shot in the chest, beaten, and robbed.
Though historically overlooked, Hardwick was one of 38 people killed in the 1919 Chicago Race Riot, an event rarely discussed or taught in schools.
Glass Markers as Lasting Memorials
Thanks to the Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project, Hardwick’s memory is now preserved with a glass marker at the site of his death. Volunteers have placed brick-shaped glass memorials in the sidewalks of locations where the killings took place throughout the city.
The markers were created by young individuals affected by violence, guided by Firebird Community Arts, an East Garfield Park group running a trauma-informed arts program. Out of 19 installed markers, Hardwick’s plaque is among the newest additions.
"For many, the corner of Adams Street and Wabash Avenue is just a busy stop... For Paul Hardwick, it was where he took his last breath."
Author's summary: The project uses glass markers crafted by impacted youth to honor victims of Chicago’s 1919 race riot, raising awareness of a rarely acknowledged tragedy.