The Lord's Barn

Historical marker location:

57 S 4th St, Quincy, Illinois

( Marker is on South 4th Street (Illinois Route 57) just south of Maine Street (U.S. 24), on the left when traveling north.)

Marker installed: 1976

The Chicago River was once so polluted that it caught on fire several times in the mid-20th century. The river was so polluted with chemicals and sewage that it was almost devoid of life. Today, the river has been cleaned up and is a popular spot for recreational activities like kayaking and boat tours.