The most comprehensive modern history of Norwood Park is Norwood Park: A View from the Ridge, which was published by the Norwood Park Historical Society in 2024. In response to popular demand, it is now going into its second printing. (The original press run sold out in one month.)
This impressive volume traces the area's evolution from Native American signal station to prairie, farmland, subdivision, village, and Chicago neighborhood. (Link for info: Norwood Park: A View from the Ridge). It is the collaborative work of three local authors: Anne Lunde, Susan J. Kroll, Carmine Fantasia.
Many locals knew Anne Lunde, (1952-2026) a longtime reporter and editor who covered Chicago's Northwest Side and its surrounding suburbs. Anne was a native of Edison Park and a graduate of Taft High School whose long career with the Des Plaines Publishing Company, Pioneer Press, and the Journal & Topics made her a fixture on the local news scene for decades.
A 'Celebration of LIfe' was held for Anne at Edison Park United Methodist Church on September 23, and it was announced there that her book, "Norwood Park, A View from the Ridge," will be going into its second printing. It's an amazing piece of local history and well worth a look.
This coffee-table sized book features over 300 illustrations, maps, and photographs; covers early settlers like the Noble family, the 1868 Norwood Land and Building Association, the incorporation in 1874, and the annexation in 1893. Special attention has also been paid to historic buildings that once graced the area but are now 'lost' due to demolition and various construction projects over the decades.
Another section of color photographs showcases the various architectural styles that can be seen in the Norwood Park area today.
To order a copy, please contact the Norwood Park Historical Society at 773-631-4633 or email them at: book@norwoodparkhistoricalsociety.org
There are several ways to purchase a copy of this amazing book:
Local pickup: Norwood Park Historical Society (late October2026; prepayment required; Venmo preferred)
Online: Kindle edition via Amazon
Contact: book@nphschicago.org for orders
