'First Ward Ball' Recreated By Atlas Obscura

CHICAGO - The First Ward Ball. Chicago historians know it as a party too debaucherous for even the early 20th century vice district. The yearly political fundraiser supported by gamblers, madames and the most crooked of Chicago politicians was notorious. It went on from 1896 until 1908, when it was shut down by Mayor Fred Busse.

Now, 111 year later, it returns. Except instead of powerful politicians it will be historians with Atlas Obscura, which highlights curious and wonderous travel destinations, organizing the event.

History lectures, drinking, dancing, burlesque and drag performances are among the plans for the Friday, Jan. 25 event at Bassline, 2239 S. Michigan Ave. in the South Loop. Craft cocktails, casino games and a vintage photobooth will help bring back the atmosphere from the turn-of-the-century.

"We're history nerds who think that history is exciting and fascinating, and what better way to showcase that than with a recreation of a crazy party, the likes of which no one currently living has ever seen," said Leyla Royale, a co-planner of the event.

But unlike the First Ward Ball events of the late 1800's and early 1900's, there won't be any rioting or significant police presence this time around.

"This way we share what we love and people learn while having fun," Royale said. "Though now with less code violations and less alcoholism."

Patti Swanson, founder of the Chicago for Chicagoans tour group, is helping Royale plan the night out.

"Leyla and I both love the history of Chicago's vice district -- it was outrageously corrupt and expansive, but its lawless reputation also allowed it to become a place in the city that social rejects of 1900 -- single women, the poor, queer folks, immigrants -- could find stable employment and community," she said.

"We wanted to bring back the fun of the legendary party that supported the vice district while also making sure we gave attendees a chance to learn about important city history."

If You Go

• DATE: Friday, Jan. 25, 2019
• TIME: 7-11 p.m.
• COST: $60
• WHERE: Bassline, 2239 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago

Photo via Atlas Obscura