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, The Chicago 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.

Introduction xiii

Section I. Geography of Chicago's Waterways 1

Chicago River and Waterways Timeline 2

1. Waters on the Land 5

2. The Physical Geography of the Chicago Region 9

3. Changing Uses, Changing Waterways 25

Section II. Guide to Chicago's Waterways 55

4. Trips on and around Chicago's Waterways 57

5. The Great Circle Tour 115

Conclusion  259

Appendix A: Organizations of the Chicago Region 261

Appendix B: Tours and Recreation 264

Appendix C: Canoeing Organizations 267

References 269

Postscript to the 2006 Edition 275

Index 279