Pilot Township (War) Memorial

Historical marker location:

Collison, Illinois

( Marker is at the intersection of County Route 750 E and County Route 2500N, on the right when traveling south on County Route 750 E.)

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.