The Chicago River: An Illustrated History and Guide to the River and Its Waterways Second Edition

About this book

The river has seen it all done it all carried it all writes David Solzman. Its current whispers of the past even as it rushes into the future. Those who know the river and its connected streams know Chicago in an elemental way. In a strong sense the river is Chicago. Follow the river and travel into the soul of the city. The river is indeed the soul of the cityit runs through the heart of downtown and it is a vehicle for both pleasure and the industry that keeps Chicago humming. With The Chicago River Solzman has succeeded in writing an encyclopedic workat once guidebook and historythat explores the rivers physical character and natural history. Examining the rivers past contemplating its present and forecasting its future Solzman draws on his unparalleled knowledge to point out places of scientific and historic interestinvolving everything from infamous murder cases to invasive zebra mussels. The books 200 photographs and maps perfectly complement Solzmans vivid prose leading readers on a visual journey as sinuous as the river it celebratesa journey interspersed with plenty of river lore facts and literary quotations. Solzman a veteran Chicago River tour guide has also compiled a diverse collection of easy and enjoyable tours for anyone who wants to experience the river by foot boat canoe or car. And he provides an appendix that lists river-related organizations museums tours and riverfront restaurants and clubs. With practical tips evocative language and an astonishing array of anecdotes TheChicago River is the most comprehensive guide to the river and its waterways the perfect companion for everyone from the active river enthusiast to the armchair traveler.