The Harold L. Ickes Homes was a public housing development managed by the Chicago Housing Authority, situated on the south side of Chicago. It was named after a U.S. political figure and administrator. The development was located between Cermak Road to the north, 24th Place to the south, State Street to the east, and Federal Street to the west. The housing complex was demolished in phases from 2007 to 2010.
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A half-million-dollar basketball court was constructed on the site of the 23rd Street Ickes. Known as the Blue Court, it was Chicago’s equivalent to Rucker Park. Basketball games took place there regularly, and the court served as a venue for community events like the Old School Parties when it wasn’t in use for basketball.
On Sunday afternoons and evenings, weather permitting, families from Ickes and Dearborn would host gatherings. People would set up their grills, and DJ Roy would bring his turntables. Seniors from Ickes would be brought out to relax in comfortable lawn chairs, while sports equipment was provided for games. Everyone enjoyed each other’s company. As night fell, it was time for adults to socialize and dance, while the children and seniors headed to sleep, and the players showed off their moves to Roy’s music.
The Old School Parties had various themes. Audrey particularly liked the all-white and seventies-themed parties. The events came to an end in 2010, residents believing it was due to the city’s discomfort with so many African Americans peacefully enjoying themselves. The memories of those gatherings continue to resonate proudly within the community.
