Friday afternoon trip, March 31
2. Walking Tour: Exploring Chicago Rivers Cost: free/no fee Leaders: Christopher Anderson and Nicholas McCormick, University of Illinois-Chicago graduate students in history Description: The Chicago River is a system of waterways that connect the Great Lakes and the Mississippi Valley. A large public works project completed in 1900 reversed the flow of the river to save the region from waterborne diseases caused by sewage contamination of Lake Michigan – a major drinking supply. The project increased the river's flow from Lake Michigan, directing it through Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. For more on the reversal of the Chicago River, see: http://www2.apwa.net/about/awards/toptencentury/chica.htm
PICTURED ABOVE AND LEFT: WATER TOWER AND CHICAGO RIVER STREET VIEW.
This walking tour will explore sites along the Chicago River, discussing environmental and social justice issues as well as the history of transportation networks, industrial uses, and recreational activities. Lunch not included. Please note that this tour is free but may include an optional stop at the The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which requires a $5 fee.