Westlawn Cemetery

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7801 W Montrose Ave Norridge, Illinois

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https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=20337

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Westlawn Cemetery: A Historic Jewish Burial Ground in Norridge, Illinois Westlawn Cemetery, located at 7801 West Montrose Avenue in Norridge, Illinois, 60706, offers a poignant glimpse into the area’s rich history and the enduring legacy of the Jewish community.

Covering 72 acres (29 hectares), this cemetery serves as a vital landmark and a place of quiet reflection, holding the final resting places of approximately 46,000 individuals, primarily of Jewish faith.

It’s a site deeply connected to the cultural and religious heritage of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs.

Contact information for inquiries is (773) 625-8600.

History and Significance Established in 1888, Westlawn Cemetery initially served as a burial ground for the burgeoning agricultural community of Norridge and the surrounding areas.

The cemetery’s early inhabitants were predominantly farmers and rural workers, reflecting the area’s historical roots in agriculture.

Over time, it evolved into a prominent Jewish cemetery, particularly following the arrival of Jewish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The cemetery’s evolution mirrors the growth and diversification of Chicago's Jewish population.

It has been a crucial center for Jewish burial traditions and memorialization for over a century.

Notable Interments Westlawn Cemetery is the final resting place for a diverse group of notable individuals, including: * Leonard S. Chess: A key executive at the Chess record company, responsible for launching the careers of many musical icons. * Virginia Lee Corbin: An actress who appeared in several films and television productions. * Sandy Dvore: A contemporary artist known for her abstract paintings. * Mike Nussbaum and Susan Nussbaum: Actors and playwrights, known for their work in television and theatre. * Richard Elrod: A respected jurist, sheriff, and legislator. * Jack Ruby: A controversial figure, famously known for shooting Lee Harvey Oswald during the investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

His conviction was later reversed, and he died while awaiting a new trial, legally presumed innocent. * Abe Saperstein: The creator of the Savoy Big Five, which evolved into the iconic Harlem Globetrotters. * Harry Sawyer: A Jewish-American organized crime boss who was involved with several gangs in the Twin Cities. * Shel Silverstein: The beloved poet, author, satirist, and cartoonist best known for his children's books. * Gene Siskel: A celebrated film critic for the Chicago Tribune.

Vandalism and Security Tragically, Westlawn Cemetery experienced a disturbing incident in January 2008 when anti-Semitic slogans and swastikas were spray-painted onto several tombstones.

A 21-year-old Polish immigrant was arrested and convicted for the vandalism, linked to a neo-Nazi organization.

This event highlighted the ongoing need for vigilance and security measures at the cemetery.

The security surrounding the cemetery has increased significantly since this incident.

Current Status and Services Currently, Westlawn Cemetery is under the care of the Norridge Township Cemetery Office.

The cemetery provides a peaceful and dignified space for Jewish families to honor their loved ones.

A key service offered is access to photographs of the markers, facilitated primarily through phone consultation.

The cemetery is affiliated with Lakeshore Jewish Funerals, offering bereavement support and services.

Resources and Additional Information * **Official Website:** [https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=20337](https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=20337) (Jewish United Fund Guide) – This link provides extensive information about the cemetery, including a detailed map and historical overview. * **Mount Olive Cemetery:** [https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=20337](https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=20337) (Another important Jewish cemetery in the Chicago area, maintained by the JUF). * **Read-Dunning Memorial Park**: [https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=307983](https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=307983) * **Zion Gardens Cemetery**: [https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=23611](https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=23611) * **Elmwood Cemetery and Mausoleum**: [https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=21459](https://www.juf.org/guide/detail.aspx?id=21459) Westlawn Cemetery stands as a significant historical and cultural landmark, offering a solemn and reflective space for the Jewish community of Chicago and beyond.

It is a place to remember, honor, and connect with the enduring legacy of those interred within its grounds.

History

Westlawn Cemetery – A Rich History in Norridge Westlawn Cemetery’s story is deeply intertwined with the agricultural heritage of Norridge, Illinois.

Established in 1888, the cemetery quickly became the primary burial ground for generations of farmers and rural workers who shaped the area’s early economy.

Initially a modest plot, Westlawn steadily expanded over the years to accommodate the growing needs of the community.

The cemetery reflects a dedication to preserving Jewish history and tradition within the Chicago metropolitan area.

For over a century, Westlawn has served as a vital landmark, a peaceful and dignified space for remembrance.

The cemetery’s significance extends beyond its physical boundaries; it represents the enduring legacy of families who contributed to Norridge’s development.

The site gained notoriety in 2008 when at least 57 tombstones were defaced with anti-Semitic slogans, highlighting a dark chapter and the ongoing need for vigilance and respect.

Today, Westlawn remains a place of solace and reflection, honoring the lives of those interred within its grounds while continuing to serve as a testament to the enduring values of the Jewish community. **Notable Interments:** * Leonard S. Chess, record company executive * Virginia Lee Corbin, actress * Sandy Dvore, artist * Mike Nussbaum, actor * Susan Nussbaum, actress and playwright * Richard Elrod, jurist, sheriff, and legislator * Jack Ruby, convicted of the murder of Lee Harvey Oswald, who at the time was under arrest for the assassination of US President John F. Kennedy (His conviction was later reversed.

He died awaiting a new trial, still legally presumed innocent.) * Abe Saperstein, creator of the Savoy Big Five, precursor of the Harlem Globetrotters * Harry Sawyer, Jewish-American organized crime boss based in the Twin Cities, co-conspirator and protector of the Dillinger and Barker-Karpis Gangs. * Shel Silverstein, poet, author, satirist, and cartoonist * Gene Siskel, film critic

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