The Tropics

Historical marker location:

1109 Hickox Dr, Lincoln, Illinois

( Marker is on Hickox Drive west of Lincoln Parkway (Old U.S. 66), on the right when traveling south.)

Marker installed: 2018

A Route 66 Landmark.

The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 was one of the most devastating fires in U.S. history. The fire destroyed much of the city, including over 17,000 buildings and left more than 100,000 people homeless. The fire started in a barn owned by Patrick and Catherine O'Leary, but the cause of the fire is still debated to this day.