1916 Chicago, Streeterville Real Estate Map - Ernest H. Lyons
DESCRIPTION
By: Chicago Real Estate Index
Date: 1916 (dated) Chicago
Dimensions: 18.5 x 24 inches
This detailed real estate plat map, published for Ernest H. Lyons by the Chicago Real Estate Index, depicts Chicago’s Near North Side and riverfront warehouse district at a pivotal stage of commercial and industrial development. The area covered stretches from Pearson Street in the north to Kinzie Street in the south, and from LaSalle Street to the Lake Shore, including detailed block and lot divisions, rail spurs, and waterfront access points along the Chicago River and Michigan Canal.
Real Estate, Industry, and Urban Planning
Designed for property investment, insurance, and real estate transactions, the map was issued by Ernest H. Lyons, a real estate and insurance broker based in the Stock Exchange Building at 30 North LaSalle Street. The survey and cartography were prepared by Harry F. Prussing, a prominent Chicago architect and surveyor active in urban land planning during this period. The map emphasizes parcel boundaries, numbered lots, and proposed street extensions, providing a granular look at how the land was subdivided for sale, development, or leasing, particularly near the bustling riverfront and canal slip.
Industrial and commercial infrastructure dominates the southern portion of the map, where rail lines, turning basins, and canal slips mark the edge of Chicago’s freight and warehousing district. North of Illinois Street, the grid transitions into a mix of residential and mixed-use parcels, many of which were being reconfigured in anticipation of future urban expansion and rising land values near the newly developing Streeterville area.
Landmarks of Commerce, Industry, and Leisure
Several notable commercial and public buildings are identified within the map, offering a snapshot of the area’s mixed-use character during the early 20th century. Near the intersection of Erie and LaSalle, the Chicago Board of Underwriters is prominently labeled, reflecting the importance of insurance and risk management in the city’s commercial core. At the corner of Ontario and Wells, the Kuppenheimer Clothing Co. is marked, indicating the presence of Chicago’s thriving garment and manufacturing industry.
The Municipal Pier, now known as Navy Pier, is partially visible in the northeast corner, hinting at its role as a key transportation and exhibition hub during the period. Additionally, just west of State Street, the Lake Shore Athletic Club appears—an exclusive social and recreational institution serving Chicago’s elite. Together, these buildings illustrate the dynamic mix of commerce, industry, public service, and leisure that defined the Near North Side as it transitioned from an industrial zone to a more diversified urban landscape.
Condition: Map is in excellent condition, issued folded now mostly flat with no significant fold separations or any staining. Margins are full on all sides, paper is clean, and print is well defined.
Inventory #13102
CONDITION
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