Chicago, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history, is home to countless landmarks that capture the essence of the city. Among these, the McCormick Bridgehouse stands out as a unique and often overlooked gem. Nestled at the southwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, this quaint structure offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the engineering marvels and historical narratives that have shaped the Windy City.

A Brief History of the McCormick Bridgehouse

The McCormick Bridgehouse is named after Robert R. McCormick, a prominent publisher and editor of the Chicago Tribune. Opened in 1920, the bridgehouse is part of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, which spans the Chicago River and connects the northern and southern parts of the city. This bascule bridge, designed by architect Edward Bennett and engineer Thomas Pihlfeldt, is an exemplary piece of early 20th-century engineering.

The Michigan Avenue Bridge was a vital component of Daniel Burnham’s 1909 Plan of Chicago, a visionary blueprint aimed at transforming Chicago into a modern metropolis. The bridge’s construction allowed for the seamless movement of pedestrians and vehicles while maintaining the navigability of the Chicago River, a crucial artery for the city’s commerce.

The Bridgehouse Museum: A Unique Attraction

In 2006, the McCormick Bridgehouse was transformed into the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, thanks to the efforts of Friends of the Chicago River, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the river’s ecological health. The museum provides a rare opportunity to explore the inner workings of a historic bascule bridge and learn about the pivotal role the Chicago River has played in the city’s development.

Visitors to the museum can embark on a self-guided tour that spans five stories, each offering a unique perspective on the bridge and the river. The journey begins at the ground level, where you can see the massive gears and mechanisms that lift the bridge. This mechanical marvel is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the early 20th century engineers who designed it.

Exploring the Five Stories of the Museum

The first floor of the Bridgehouse Museum is dedicated to the mechanics of the bridge. Here, visitors can observe the massive gears and learn about the engineering principles that allow the bridge to open and close. The sight of these mechanical components in action during a bridge lift is a highlight for many visitors, providing a tangible connection to the past.

Moving up to the second floor, the focus shifts to the history of the Chicago River. Exhibits detail the river’s transformation from a bustling industrial waterway to a cleaner, more ecologically balanced system. The river’s reversal, a monumental engineering feat in 1900, is a key topic of discussion. This project, spearheaded by the Sanitary District of Chicago, redirected the flow of the river away from Lake Michigan to protect the city’s drinking water supply.

The third floor of the museum delves into the bridge’s architectural significance. The Michigan Avenue Bridge, also known as the DuSable Bridge, is adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs that celebrate Chicago’s history and its connection to the river. Visitors can learn about the symbolism behind these artworks and the artists who created them, such as James Earle Fraser and Henry Hering.

On the fourth floor, the museum highlights the efforts of the Friends of the Chicago River and other organizations in revitalizing the river. Interactive displays showcase the various projects aimed at improving water quality, restoring habitats, and enhancing public access to the riverfront. This floor emphasizes the ongoing commitment to preserving the river for future generations.

Finally, the fifth floor offers breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and the bustling river below. From this vantage point, visitors can appreciate the city’s architectural splendor and the vital role the river plays in its urban landscape. The panoramic vista provides a fitting conclusion to the museum tour, reinforcing the interconnectedness of Chicago’s history, architecture, and natural environment.

The Bridge Lifts: A Spectacular Sight

One of the most exciting aspects of visiting the McCormick Bridgehouse is witnessing a bridge lift. The Michigan Avenue Bridge is a bascule bridge, meaning it can be raised to allow tall ships and boats to pass through. During the spring and fall, the bridge is lifted multiple times to accommodate the seasonal movement of sailboats between Lake Michigan and their winter storage facilities.

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