1929 Map of Harvey

About this map

Markham Yards dominates the industrial landscape of Cook County on this revised 1940s survey, illustrating the massive rail infrastructure that defined the region south of Chicago. The extensive yard system and the Illinois Central RR corridor serve as a spine for growing suburbs like Harvey, Homewood, and Flossmoor. The map captures a unique mix of social and recreational land use, from the Oak Forest Institutions and Glenwood Manual Training School to a high concentration of private clubs, including the Ravisloe Country Club and Idlewild Country Club. Cultural landmarks of the era are clearly marked, such as the Washington Park Race Course and the Illinois Kennel Club. Between these developed areas, the terrain of the Pottawattamie Hills and the winding course of Butterfield Creek provide a natural contrast to the rigid grid of streets and the Calumet Union Drainage canal.