The Ridge Historical Society will host a program titled "Nostalgic Trip to Riverview Park" at 2 p.m. Aug. 12 at its headquarters at 10621 S. Seeley Ave. The featured speaker is Larry Bergnach from "Reminiscing with Larry Nostalgia Seminars."

Riverview Amusement Park opened June 3, 1904, at the corner of Belmont and Western Avenues on the North Side. For the next 63 years, it was the world's largest amusement park and offered entertainment to millions of people from all walks of life.

It grew from 22 acres and three rides to 140 acres and more than 100 attractions. "Laugh Your Troubles Away!" was the tag line of the popular park. Famous and not-so-famous attractions included the Ferris Wheel, Shoot-The-Chutes, Tilt-a-Whirl, Aladdin's Castle, Tunnel of Love, the Bobs and Snoozer the Talking Dog.

Bergnach left a 30-year career in pharmaceutical sales for a 15-year stint as an instructor for Dale Carnegie. His Nostalgia Seminars include Riverview, Old Time Radio and The Big Bands..

Tickets for the "Nostalgic Trip to Riverview Park" cost $10 for RHS members and $15 for non-members. Reservations are encouraged and may be made by calling RHS 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 773-881-1675. Refreshments will be served at the event.