Chatham Business Leader Honored With Street Naming
An iconic Chatham community leader and entrepreneur was honored during an outdoor street naming ceremony last Friday. As a large enthusiastic crowd cheered, Mr. Joseph Caldwell Sr., CEO of TailoRite Complete Clothing Care Company, modestly stood and watched the unveiling of a street sign that marks what is now, Joseph Caldwell Sr. Way.
The new street sign was installed at 85th and Cottage Grove, directly in front of the TailoRite business there. Joseph Caldwell Sr. Way runs between 84th & 85th & Cottage Grove.
Throughout the ceremony, family, friends, and elected officials expressed gratitude and appreciation for Caldwell. Todd Stroger, former Cook County Board President, described Caldwell as a true friend and a pillar of the community.
I not only value your friendship and hard work but also what you do for the community said Stroger.
Joseph Caldwell has been giving back to the community for years. Its time that we give back to him, and this street sign is just a start of what we can do to thank him, said Sen. Roland Burris who was also in attendance.
Veta Caldwell-Charles, Caldwells daughter and organizer of the event spoke lightheartedly about her father.
My father always talks about cloning himself. That might be impossible but we are here to learn everything he knows about the business. Charles said.
In 1956, Caldwell and three business partners began TailoRite Complete Clothing Care. Being trained at the Metropolitan School of Tailoring, Caldwell was able to service the tailoring/alteration needs of TailoRites south-side clientele. In 1973, Caldwell decided to expand and venture out on his own. That is when he incorporated a dry-cleaning/ laundry aspect to the business, making TailoRite a pioneer of the garment services care industry and a community icon.
Tailorite has two other locations at 6507 S. King Dr. and 8335 S. Racine Ave.
By: Abbra Stiffend
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