1901 Map of Chicago

About this map

The North Branch Chicago River and the South Branch Chicago River define the internal geography of a rapidly densifying metropolis at the turn of the century. This survey, conducted primarily in the 1890s, documents the city's intricate gridiron expansion and the critical transition between two major industrial waterways: the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal and the newly constructed Sanitary and Ship Canal. The map reveals the extensive rail infrastructure required to support this growth, featuring lines such as the C. and N. W. R. R. and the Illinois Central R. R. cutting through established neighborhoods and developing fringes. Significant green spaces like Jackson Park and Washington Park provide a counterpoint to the industrial corridors, while massive memorial grounds including Rose Hill Cemetery and Graceland Cem. anchor the northern reaches of the city.