Oneida Street Steps

Historical marker location:

30 N Bluff Street, Joliet, Illinois

( Marker is on North Bluff Street north of West Jefferson Street (U.S. 30), on the right when traveling south.)

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.