Virginia Gregg

Historical marker location:

325 E Locust St, Harrisburg, Illinois

( Marker is at the intersection of East Locust Street and North Skaggs Street, on the right when traveling east on East Locust Street.)

Marker installed: 2016

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.