Berwyn honors Fitzgerald's nightclub for historic designation in national register

The City Council of Berwyn, Illinois, convened on February 26, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including a significant proclamation and a resolution for an upcoming community event.

The meeting commenced with a proclamation recognizing Fitzgerald's Nightclub for its recent designation as a historic site. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources notified the city that Fitzgerald's, located at 6615 West Roosevelt Road, has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This designation marks it as the first music venue or nightclub in Illinois to receive such an honor, highlighting its importance in the cultural and historical landscape of the nation.

The proclamation detailed Fitzgerald's evolution from an early 1900s roadhouse to a prominent jazz and blues venue, and now a beloved nightclub. It acknowledged the contributions of current owners Jessica King and Will Duncan, particularly their innovative adaptations during the COVID-19 pandemic that fostered community connections. The nightclub plans to celebrate its historic designation throughout 2025 with an open house, a commemorative plaque dedication, and various special events.

Following the proclamation, a motion was made to adopt it, which received unanimous support from the council. Jessica and Will were invited to the front to receive the recognition.

The council then moved on to Item F2, which involved a resolution to grant permission for the annual baseball parade scheduled for May 10. The motion to approve the parade was also passed unanimously, with plans for the event to begin at 9:00 AM.

In summary, the meeting highlighted Berwyn's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage through the recognition of Fitzgerald's Nightclub and fostering community spirit with the upcoming baseball parade. The council's actions reflect a dedication to celebrating local history and community engagement.