William D. Boyce

Historical marker location:
1601 Ottawa Avenue, Ottawa, Illinois
Marker installed: 1941

Publisher Explorer Humanitarian

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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.