Monday, August 15, 2016

Illinois' Chain of Lakes-- Part 10: Expulsion of Indians and Coming of the Railroad Had Huge Impact

The area in northeastern Illinois now referred to as the Chain of Lakes was once home to a semi-nomadic Indian tribe.  French trappers and traders, including fur trapper Louis Joliet and Father Jacques Marquette were said to have explored the area in the mid-17th century although no last settlements were founded.  Just passing through.

The area, which is roughly equidistant from Milwaukee and Chicago, did not quickly become settled by Europeans and colonists due to difficulty traveling to the area.  However, the expulsion of the Indians and coming of the railroads opened the area tremendously.

The railroads not only helped get products to market, but also brought vacationers from Chicago out for the recreation offered.

The Chain Became a Big Tourist Area.  --Cooter

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