To: Mrs. S.W. Hehuer(?) From: Lizzie 1909
Hello everybody,
You will be somewhat surprised when you find I am in Chicago but am here in the interest of music. If it is overnight(?) for me to stop at your place on my way home please let me know.
(flipped) I expect to be here another week or so. Address me 267 Michigan Ave
Lovingly,
Lizzie
Chicago in 1909 was a melting pot of industry, progressive ideals, tax dodging and mob bosses. In this illustrious year, the first men’s march supporting women voting occurred in Chicago, voters pushed to end “white slavery” (it was a fear that white women were being kidnapped and sold into sex slavery overseas), and various smoke bombs were deployed in theaters by striking workers.
It was also the era of Ragtime. I can’t guarantee that when Lizzie found herself in Chicago in 1909, she was there seeking out Ragtime. I don’t know if she played an instrument, sang, or studied music at a conservatory. But, Ragtime filled dance halls and paved the way for the Jazz age of the 1920’s. If you haven’t heard ragtime — yes you have. Simply search it on youtube and you’ll immediately recognize the syncopated (or “ragged”) melodies and the staccato piano notes. There’s a promise to ragtime. It’s like a hot August day but with the sweet, crisp smell of fall on the wind.
For Lizzie, the Chicago music scene must have been scintillating. But Aurora was nothing to sneeze at, either.
Situated 44 minutes outside of Chicago (by car), Aurora, Illinois was dubbed the city of lights, because it was the first city in the United States to use electricity to light the public streets. Now, it’s the second biggest city in Illinois (next to Chicago). It’s no wonder, then, that Lizzie hoped to stay with friends or family.
As for Lizzie and S.W? Unfortunately, I couldn’t find either of them. As is so often the case, the postcard addressee is hidden behind the name of her husband. Now, if I knew a first name for certain, I may be able to find her. However, with only the initials, and since I’m not entirely certain with the spelling of the last name — it’s like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Nonetheless, this card seems filled with breathless anticipation. It’s the turn of the twentieth century. Music is becoming more lively, and dark nightclubs cater to young clients. Lizzie is in Chicago for music. What an exciting adventure that must have been.
Front of postcard is an image of “The Auditorium” the largest theater in Chicago at the time. Saved from demolition, the auditorium still hosts a variety of events.
Hipstory 