The roads around University Circle can seem like an ice rink this time of year.

But guess what?

We actually had one of those.

This empty lot, what it was, was one of the coolest spots in the city.

The Elysium opened in 1907 as the largest artificial ice skating plant in the world.

The rink’s proprietor was Dudley Humphrey, already known for popcorn balls and Euclid Beach Park.

With 2,000 seats, the indoor rink hosted hockey, figure skating and even art shows.

But not all were welcome.

In 1939, two civil rights lawsuits were filed against the Humphrey Company after Black patrons were refused entry on two separate occasions.

The rink closed in 1941, citing uncertainties caused by World War II.

It was later a used car lot before the city took ownership and demolished the building in 1953.

Today, while you're sliding along Euclid Avenue, consider that the traffic signal is controlled by this box, decorated with the ghosts of ice rinks past.