The Chicago River: A Tale of Two Ends
From Humble Beginnings to a Great Lakes Giant
So, you wanna know where the Chicago River starts and ends? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this is a story more twisty than a politician’s apology.
Let’s start at the beginning. Or, well, as close to the beginning as we can get without getting our boots muddy. The Chicago River actually starts as a couple of little streams, the North Branch and the South Branch, which meet up in downtown Chicago to form the main stem. Now, this is where things get interesting.
A River Runs Through It... Backwards!
Originally, the Chicago River was a lazy ol’ thing, just floating along into Lake Michigan. But, as cities tend to do, Chicago grew, and grew, and grew, and the river became a dumping ground for everything from industrial waste to, well, let’s just say things you wouldn’t want to find in your bathtub. And, as you might imagine, this wasn't exactly ideal for a city that got its drinking water from the same lake.
Enter, stage left, one of the greatest engineering feats of all time: reversing the river. Yep, you read that right. Chicagoans decided to turn the river around so it would flow away from the lake, carrying all that nasty stuff with it. Talk about a 180!
Where Does It End?
So, where does this newly reversed river end up? Well, after a long journey through the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, it eventually joins up with the Des Plaines River. And where does the Des Plaines River go? Well, that’s a story for another day, but let's just say it ends up in the Gulf of Mexico. So, technically, the Chicago River starts in a couple of suburban streams and ends up in the Gulf of Mexico. Who would have thought?
Quick Facts About the Chicago River
- Did you know: The Chicago River is home to a surprisingly diverse ecosystem, including fish, turtles, and even an occasional otter.
- Fun fact: The river is also a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Just make sure you wear the right gear!
- Legend has it: There are some pretty spooky stories about the river, including ghosts and hidden treasures. So, if you’re feeling brave, take a night cruise!
How To...
- How to appreciate the Chicago River: Take a boat tour, rent a kayak, or simply walk along the riverwalk.
- How to learn more about the river's history: Visit the Chicago History Museum or take a guided tour.
- How to help protect the river: Volunteer for a river cleanup or support organizations working to improve water quality.
- How to avoid falling in: Pay attention to your surroundings and wear appropriate footwear.
- How to impress your friends with river trivia: Share this post!