James W. Cole was known as the “Shoe Shine King.” He gave the community and returning citizens the opportunity to learn the craft, and the personal service of shoe care and repair. He owned and operated Shine King for more than 57 years. Eventually he bought the buiding and rented out other shops to various businesses.

His shoe shine clients included former Mayors and Barak Obama.

He was born in Tennessee and moved to Chicago as a young boy.

Alum
Marshall High School

Honorary James W. Cole WAY

North Central Avenue between West Fulton Street and West Corcoran Place

Approved: June 2023

Ward: 29
Alderman: Chris Taliaferro
Neighborhood: Austin

d. 2022, Age 78

near
Shine King
338 N. Central Ave

Source

20232094,1675

https://chicagodefender.com/james-cole-the-owner-of-chicagos-shoe-shine-king-dead-at-78/

https://blockclubchicago.org/2022/07/18/james-cole-the-west-sides-shoe-shine-king-who-helped-his-neighbors-find-work-dies-at-78/

https://chicago.suntimes.com/obituaries/2022/7/11/23204026/shine-king-founder-james-cole-obituary

https://chicagocrusader.com/west-sides-shine-king-james-cole-dies-at-78/

https://www.austinweeklynews.com/2018/07/11/james-cole-50-years-the-shoe-shine-king/