Historical Marker
Popeye
Historical marker location:
10 Bridge Bypass Road, Chester, Illinois
( Marker can be reached from Bridge Bypass Road west of Randolph Street, on the left when traveling west.)
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.