Artists Commemorate Chicago's 1919 Race Riot with Glass Markers
The Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project has dedicated years to installing memorials across the city to honor those who died in this historic event. The newest markers were presented during a walking tour in the Loop on Saturday.
Remembering Paul Hardwick
For most, the corner of Adams Street and Wabash Avenue is a busy crossroads near popular Chicago sites like the Chicago Theatre, Grant Park, and the Art Institute. However, over a century ago, this spot marked the tragic death of Paul Hardwick, an African American man.
On his way to work at the Palmer House hotel, Hardwick was pursued by about 30 white attackers. He was shot in the chest, beaten, and robbed. Despite being one of 38 people killed during the Chicago Race Riot of 1919, Hardwick was largely forgotten — an event that historians note is rarely taught or discussed.
Memorializing History Through Art
Thanks to the Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project, Hardwick is now remembered with a glass marker at the site of his death. Volunteers have installed brick-shaped glass memorials in sidewalks citywide where killings took place.
The markers were designed and created by young individuals affected by violence, guided by Firebird Community Arts, an East Garfield Park group running trauma-informed arts programs.
“The pieces were created by young people who have been impacted by violence.”
So far, 19 memorial markers have been placed, with Hardwick’s the latest addition.
Author’s Summary
This project powerfully honors victims of the 1919 Chicago Race Riot, using community-driven art to preserve an often overlooked but critical chapter in the city’s history.