Shorefront Journal
Uncovering stories is a part of Shorefront’s DNA

Shorefront Journal

Shorefront Journal is the official online publication of Shorefront. Occasional postings explore local Black history, work within Shorefront and welcomes contributing articles from the general public. The original journal began in 1999 as a printed quarterly. In 2012, the journal transitioned online with an annual printed version. Several issues of the original journal can be found at issuu.com/shorefront.

For submissions: Send articles and supporting images for consideration to shorefront@me.com

Re-posting: Please cite “shorefrontlegacy.org” when reposting any Shorefront media and publications originating from Shorefront Journal

Publications: Visit lulu.com/spotlight/shorefrontpress for all of Shorefront’s active publications through Shorefront Press.

In 1999, Shorefront Journal, in its original printed form, was released to meet the need of sharing these significant stories to the general public. Published quarterly, this informal journal gave voice to the many historical moments throughout the Northern suburbs of Chicago.

The journal also gave exposure to more than 60 contributing writers — students, professors, historians alike — and became a venue for writers to share their stories and skills.

Shorefront welcomes the work of novice and professional writers and will make every effort to assure timely consideration of submissions. CLICK HERE to submit.

April 4, 2013,,1

CHAINSAW DUPONT: CUTTIN’ THE BLUES HIS WAY

— By Chip Ratliff — When you listen to his voice, you can’t help but hear the unique tone of a man that has paid his dues. An unmistakable voice that is all his own. His words speak of “sinners & saints”, love, pain, and survival drawing from a soulfulness coming from years of growing...
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April 1, 2013,3

Evanston: An Early North Shore African American Community

— Short Series — The growth of the African American communities in Chicago’s suburban North Shore was unique. Instead of first settling in Chicago, most early settlers came directly to these North Shore communities. Evanston was and still is the longest stable community dating back to 1855.  Its growth would increase by over 4,000 residents...
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March 28, 2013,,7

Emerson Street Branch YMCA: Segregation in Evanston

— By Dino Robinson — It was around 1907 when James Rayford Talley, a graduate of the Hampton Institute, moved to Evanston, Illinois and wanted to be involved in the Local YMCA. Talley, and for the rest of the Black community, was not welcome and was denied membership. Talley was hired as its first Executive...
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March 25, 2013,1

Glencoe: An Early North Shore African American Community

— Short Series — Whether escaping from slavery or returning from Canada after the Civil War, The North Shore has been home to African Americans as early as 1834. Instead of first settling in Chicago, most early settlers came directly to these North Shore communities. Glencoe, Illinois was one such place this community called home...
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March 21, 2013,,0

Remembered as a Mentor: Charles R. Bouyer

— By Dino Robinson Charles Randolph Bouyer was born December 8, 1905. In his early life, he lived with his aunt and uncle in St. Louis, Missouri. When of age, he made his way to Chicago’s south side then later to Evanston c.1930. While in Evanston, he was employed by Foster School unofficially as the...
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March 18, 2013,,0

Lake Forest: An Early North Shore African American Community

— Short Series — The growth of the African American communities in Chicago’s suburban North Shore was unique. Instead of first settling in Chicago, most early settlers came directly to these North Shore communities. Throughout the century, many families shared common links in several northern suburban communities. As early as 1834, Lake County had an...
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