Houston - Dickson Store

Historical marker location:

Palestine, Illinois

( Marker is at the intersection of East Grand Prairie Street and South Lincoln Street, on the left when traveling east on East Grand Prairie Street.)

Marker installed: 1962

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.