The South Loop is one of the fastest growing neighborhoods in Chicago. I'm learning that it has really taken off in the past fifteen years. Prior to that, it was known to some as the "No Neighborhood." It was a collection of gorgeous but vacant buildings and acres of blacktop covered, undeveloped tracts of urban emptiness. It wasn't always that way though. In the late 1800s, this area was home to some of Chicago's wealthiest businessmen. Huge homes were built and it was quite the swankified place to live. Around that same time the area was home to the city's capital of vice, the Levee. (Think brothels and saloons and more brothels.)
After World War II there was a migration to the North-side of Chicago. This left the South Loop chiefly abandoned and anxiously awaiting it's rebirth at the turn of the 21st century. In 1993 Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley moved to a townhouse on South Prairie Ave (just a few blocks from where we live...). His move opened many Chicagoan's eyes to this gem. The growth seems to have been non-stop ever since.
What we've fallen hard for in our short time here is the neighborhood's atmosphere. You have all the amenities of living in the loop but it's so. much. quieter. The streets are less congested and there is a comfortably residential feel. It's easily walk-able and feels safe. There's a terrific mix of old and new architecture, a handful of great restaurants and views of Lake Michigan. We're within walking distance of the Museum Campus (Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Adler Planetarium) and Soldier Field. The hubby has easy freeway access to get to work and public transportation is a snap if we're looking to get anywhere else.
Though we're new to the area, it's quickly becoming home.
Now it's your turn to share!
What do you love most about your neighborhood?
Today's post was inspired by the 30 Days of GOOD Challenge: Become a Good Citizen. Today's task was to learn the history of your neighborhood!
