Industry

Historical marker location:

192 S Main St, Glen Carbon, Illinois

( Marker is at the intersection of Collinsville Street and South Main Street, on the right when traveling north on Collinsville Street.)

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.