In the 1920s, the Chicago River was a bustling hub of activity. Lined with factories, warehouses, and bustling docks, the river served as a vital artery for the city’s economy. Steamboats chugged up and down the river, transporting goods and people to and from the bustling city center.
However, the river was not without its challenges. Pollution from the industrial activities along its banks had turned the once pristine waterway into a toxic stew. Sewage and industrial waste flowed freely into the river, creating a foul stench that permeated the air. Despite efforts to clean up the river, it remained a polluted and unsightly mess well into the 20th century.
Despite these challenges, the Chicago River remained a vital part of the city’s identity. Its waters were a lifeline for the city’s economy, and its banks were lined with bustling industry. While the river faced many challenges in the 1920s, it remained a vital part of Chicago’s past, present, and future.
Image by Suzanne’s stream from Flickr.
