Chicagoist: Ask Chicagoist: Old Numbering System?

twopennykid

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:43:38 -0600

Note this passage from the Chicago Public Library's timeline: "An exception was between Madison Street and 31st Street where 1200 numbers were assigned between Madison Street and 12th Street, 1000 numbers between 12th Street and 22nd Street, and 900 numbers between 22nd Street and 31st Street." That's right--'100 numbers are used per block, eight blocks make up a mile' is NOT TRUE between Madison and 31st. It's one mile from Madison to Roosevelt (12th), one mile from Roosevelt to Cermak (22nd) and one mile from Cermak to 31st.

guest

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 11:39:29 -0600

nice question. funny thing is that i used to live in that building. steepest steps i've ever walked up. - c:dub

Stephen

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 11:09:00 -0600

Hey Chicagoist - do you know if the change in numbers is also related to the changes of several street names? For example, Robey Street is now Damen Avenue, and Lincoln Street is now Wolcott Avenue. Wasn't sure if those changes came in the same sweeping change of numbers, or if those appeared over a much greater span of time.

guest

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:24:04 -0600

The "Ask Chicagoist" entries are some of the best on this site.

Shannon

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:12:11 -0600

geekily fascinating. i've seen dischordant numbers between houses and doors as well. the eeriest evidence i've seen of the old numbering system are lists of victims of the iriquois fire, circa 1903. very few 'E.'s and 'W.'s on those streets.