James Thompson surveyed Chicago and filed a plat on August 4, 1830, to officially recognize Chicago's location.
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| The James Thompson Plat of Chicago, August 4, 1830. |
Chicago was incorporated as a town on August 12, 1833, with a population of around 350.
With a population of 4,170, the town of Chicago filed new Incorporation documents on March 4, 1837, becoming the City of Chicago. Following are some of the benefits to the local government:
Cities have more businesses and jobs than towns, which attracts new residents, business investment, and entrepreneurs.
EXPANDED TAX BASE
Cities have a larger tax base than towns, which can be used to fund improvements in infrastructure, social services, and public safety.
IMPROVED INFRASTRUCTURE
Cities have more of and better roads, bridges, water and sewer services, and public transportation than towns, which makes it easier for people to get around and businesses to attract customers.
EXPANDED CITY SERVICES
Cities offer a wider range of services than towns, such as fire departments, police departments, libraries, and recreation programs. These services can make cities more attractive places to live and work.
EXPANDED SOCIAL SERVICES
Cities offer social services such as schools, hospitals, parks, and other community resources. These services can make cities more attractive to families and individuals seeking opportunities.
GREATER CULTURAL OPPORTUNITY
Cities offer cultural and social opportunities like a library, museums, theaters, concert halls, and other cultural institutions. These opportunities can make cities more attractive to people who enjoy a vibrant cultural scene.
INCREASED POLITICAL POWER
Cities have more representation in Illinois state government than a town would. This gives cities a greater say in state and federal government decisions that can benefit or effect city residents.
In addition to these advantages, cities also offer a number of other amenities that attract more people, such as a variety of restaurants, saloons, drug stores, dry goods & other shops, and entertainment options.
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Chicago was first called "The Hub" in a newspaper in the 1850s, and then it quickly caught-on becomming popular as a major transportation hub, with railroads, highways, canals and waterways. It was used in newspapers, magazines, and even in political speeches. The nickname helped to promote Chicago as a major city, and it helped to attract businesses and residents to the city. 'The Hub' nickname sped up Chicago's popularity becoming a major transportation hub with a number of railroads, highways, and later, air travel in the nation.
By Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.
