From Smithsonian.com, you can explore an interactive historical map of Chicago before the Great Chicago Fire. This fascinating map, which you can view through a virtual spyglass, is part of the David Rumsey Map Collection. Rumsey, a renowned map expert who has been collecting maps since the 1980s, describes this piece as a rare and valuable glimpse into the city’s past. His collection now includes over 150,000 maps and is one of the largest private collections in the U.S. The map was created in 1868 by Rufus Blanchard, a prominent Chicago map publisher during the late 18th century. It was included in a guidebook titled *The Citizen’s Guide for the City of Chicago*. Made from thin but remarkably durable paper, it was designed to be carried easily—perfect for residents or visitors navigating the rapidly growing city. “Chicago was a really busy place back then,” Rumsey says. “It was expanding fast.” He points to the network of railroads on the map as a clear sign of the city's growth. At that time, around seven railroads connected to Chicago, most of which no longer exist today. Looking westward on the map, you can see how neighborhoods began to develop in distinct, self-contained areas. But don’t forget to check the east side too, near Lake Michigan. “Chicago expanded eastward because they filled in parts of the lake,” Rumsey explains. “If you zoom in on the shoreline, you’ll see how much new land was added compared to older maps.” To support its growing population, the city made clever use of Lake Michigan, including land reclamation projects and infrastructure like the “Lake Tunnel” and “Tunnel crib,” shown in the upper-right corner of the map, which helped bring fresh water into the city. This map captures Chicago at the height of its expansion—but that progress was nearly wiped out just a few years later by the Great Chicago Fire. Rumsey highlights the areas that were destroyed, with shaded blocks in pink, green, yellow, and blue showing the extent of the damage. It's a powerful reminder of how quickly history can change. Thanks, Jeff.

Juice Drink Filling Machine

Pop Canned Drink Filling Machine,Pop Canned Drink Filling Machines,Pop Canned Drink Filling Machinery

Zhangjiagang Mark Beverage Machinery Co., Ltd. , https://www.markfilling.com