History of Whiting Banks: Part One

Organized banking in Lake County had its origin with the establishment of the First National Bank of Crown Point in 1874.  Once Whiting was incorporated as a town, it did not take too long for its leaders to enter the banking world.  Over the next few months, I will document the rise of some of Whiting’s banking institutions.

door-to-door on 119th street over the years

An updated list of what’s been on Whiting’s main street over the years.

Geffert Hardware

An iconic local business.

THE SAD AND DISTURBING STORY OF WHITING'S MIKE INIK

Newspapers described Mike as a cripple, who was thought to be a harmless crank.  But that was before he shot up the superior courthouse in Hammond, after which he was called demented, crazed and deranged; a madman, a lunatic and a maniac.

The Mermen of Whiting

There was a time when Whiting High School was dominate in the swimming pool. But, like the mythical creature their legacy is now a thing of lore.

when whiting had two mayors… at the same time

In a span of just twenty days, Whiting had five changes in who occupied the mayor’s office. And on one of those occasions, two men occupied the office at the same time.

The St. Margaret Hospital School of Nursing 1919 to 1967

There was a time, not so long ago, that there were few career options opened to young women after high school. In many cases, many young women chose to become nurses for after the War, many nurses were needed.