Notable Former Residents
Ramsey Lewis
An American jazz composer, pianist and radio personality. He has recorded over 80 albums and has received five gold records and three Grammy Awards so far in his career.
Image credit: National Public Radio
Dr. Robert J. Moon
An American physicist, Chemist, and Engineer. He worked on the Manhattan Project at the University of Chicago. Dr. Moon pioneered work on the fundamental structure of the atomic nucleus based on Platonic solids.
Image credit: Philip Ulanowsky/EIRNS
Bo Diddley (Ellas Otha Bates)
An American singer, guitarist, songwriter and music producer who played a key role in the transition from the blues to rock and roll. He is known to have influenced many artists, including Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and the Clash.
Image credit: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Gayle sayers
A Football Hall of Famer who played for the Chicago Bears from 1965-1971, he is also known for his friendship with Bear's player Brian Piccolo. Their friendship is the basis for the movie Brian's Song.
Image Credit: DailySports.com
William s. gray
A pioneer in teaching children to read, Mr. Gray is best know for the “Dick and Jane” book series. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago, eventually returning to serve as a professor and dean of the College of Education.
Image Credit: Reading Hall of Fame
curtis ellis
A businessman, public accountant, restaurateur, real estate investor, Mr. Ellis was best known as the owner of Ellis’ Bookstore, which specialized in African-American literature. Back in the day, Ellis’ Bookstore was the only source in Chicago where one could purchase black-oriented magazines and publications such as the Liberator, Freedomways, and Black Dialogue.
Image Credit: Legacy.com
gordon sherman
A businessman and community activist, Mr. Sherman was CEO and founder of the Midas Muffler chain with his father, Nate Sherman. Mr. Sherman also founded Business People for the Public Interest. He played the bagpipes and suggested the first neighborhood picnic be called the Highlands Fling, now an annual tradition. The first “fling” was opened with Gordon marching down the street playing the bagpipes with neighbors following!
Image Credit: Bing Inages