1963 Map of River Forest

About this map

The Des Plaines River corridor serves as the primary green artery through this densely developed mid-century landscape, separating the suburbs of Melrose Park and River Grove from the northwestern edge of Chicago. Extensive forest preserves and parklands like Camp Fort Dearborn and Norwood Park contrast with the grid-based residential expansion and the massive institutional presence of the Chicago State Hospital. Significant infrastructure projects of the era are prominent, including the Tri-State Tollway and the Kennedy Expressway, which facilitate movement through the township of Leyden.