Tee, if you're still watching this - I have a 'Chicago Hardy' planted near my house (very near) and on the south-east aspect. It didn't even get nipped last year, I had expected it to freeze to the ground, at least. They are root hardy in our area, at least (I also have that 6b/7a thing going on). The fruit isn't as sweet as dried figs, but they aren't sweetened and drying often concentrates flavors.
The owner of the nursery that I got it from also grows 'Celeste' and 'Brown Turkey', although I'm not sure if he is working with a micro-climate, but he lives pretty close to me.
I pick my figs by a 'feel-test' - if they're soft and pull off with just a bit of pressure, then they're ripe. I didn't get any until early August this year - it's been suggested that it was because it was so dry.
I will also gladly share cuttings with anyone this coming spring.
