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What did Chicago look like before the Great Fire?
From Smithsonian.com, you can explore an interactive historical map of Chicago before the Great Chicago Fire. This detailed map, viewable through a virtual spyglass, is part of the David Rumsey Map Collection — one of the most extensive private map archives in the United States.
David Rumsey, a renowned map expert who has been collecting maps since the 1980s, describes this particular piece as a rare and valuable artifact. His collection now includes over 150,000 maps, offering a unique glimpse into the evolution of geography and urban development.
The map was created by Rufus Blanchard, a Chicago-based map publisher who thrived in the late 18th century. It was included in a guidebook titled "The Citizen’s Guide for the City of Chicago" and was made from thin, lightweight paper that was surprisingly durable — perfect for carrying in a pocket or handbag. At the time, Chicago was rapidly expanding, and the map served as a practical tool for both residents and visitors navigating the growing city.
As Rumsey explains, one of the most striking features of the map is the network of railroads depicted. There were approximately seven major rail lines converging on the city, many of which no longer exist today. Looking westward on the map, you can see the emergence of new subdivisions and neighborhoods, showing how the city expanded in distinct, localized ways. But the growth wasn't limited to the west — it also spread eastward toward Lake Michigan.
"Chicago filled in parts of the lake to create more land," Rumsey notes. "If you zoom in on the shoreline, you can see how much land was added compared to older maps." The city used Lake Michigan to its advantage, not only for expansion but also for infrastructure. The map shows structures like the “Lake Tunnel†and “Tunnel crib,†which were used to bring fresh water from the lake into the city.
Despite its rapid growth, Chicago's boom came to a tragic end just a few years later with the Great Chicago Fire. The map highlights the areas that were destroyed, with large sections shaded in pink, green, yellow, and blue, showing the devastating impact of the fire on the city.
Thanks to Jeff for sharing this incredible resource.