Toar

Historical marker location:

223 Wall St, Chester, Illinois

( Marker is at the intersection of Wall Street and East Kaskaskia Street, on the left when traveling south on Wall Street.)

Marker installed: 2020

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.