Little Village has been known by several names over the past 140 years, but its rich culture and history have never been forgotten. Situated on Chicago's southwest side, Little Village has gone from real estate promoters Millard and Decker's affluent "suburb" Lawndale to one of the largest Bohemian enclaves in the United States. This vibrant neighborhood is known today as the largest Mexican community in the state of Illinois. Little Village has almost always been a working-class immigrant neighborhood filled with hardworking men and women who want their piece of the American dream. From residents such as martyred Chicago mayor Anton Cermak to the typical immigrant family next door, these strong-willed people have made their mark on Chicago and the rest of the world.
Frank S. Magallon is a historian concentrating on the suburbs of Berwyn, Cicero, and the Czech neighborhoods of Chicago. He is an avid collector of rare photographs and memorabilia from these areas and shares many never-before-seen images in this book. Magallon's connection to Little Village spans nearly three-quarters of a century with his father's and mother's families residing within the community.