Illinois Place Names indicates that the area of Washington Heights historically was also known as Blue Island Ridge, Campbells Woods, Dummy Junction, and North Blue Island. A Post Office by the name of Washington Heights was established 25 October 1869, as noted, it is now part of Chicago. It was one of the small towns and villages that were annexed into the City of Chicago in the late 19th century. At this time, it was predominantly a community of German. The landscape of Washington Heights changed beginning in the late 1960s as a result of two factors. The West Leg extension of the Dan Ryan Expressway, more known as Interstate 57, cut through the southern half of the community, dividing the area. Simultaneously, a number of African Americans began moving into the community. In the 1970s the demographics of Washington Heights changed primarily to African-American, the community continues to retain its middle-class character. Washington Heights is serviced by three Metra commuter rail stops, which provide daily service to LaSalle Street Station in Chicago. A CTA red line stop at 95th St. is also available along the Dan Ryan Expressway in nearby Roseland, Washington Heights has seen redevelopment in recent years. Likewise, an abandoned railroad line that ran along the southwestern edge of the community was acquired by the Chicago Park District. It runs between the Dan Ryan Woods in Beverly and the Whistler Woods in suburban Riverdale, crossing the Calumet River, official City of Chicago Washington Heights Community Map Ridge Historical Society
Carter G. Woodson Regional Library
The Major Taylor Trail, is popular among South Side cyclists.