Midway Plaisance - Chicago, IL
N 41° 47.285 W 087° 35.458
16T E 450895 N 4626416
Midway Plaisance was build for the Worlds Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893.
Waymark Code: WM2BV0
Location: Illinois, United States
Date Posted: 10/08/2007
Views: 87
Early designs of this area were put on hold after being destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. Olmsted had designed an area between Jackson Park on the east and Washington Park on the west. It was to have a venetian style canal from the lagoon systems of Washington Park, through several small lakes in the Plaisance, into the lagoons of Jackson Parks, and then to Lake Michigan. Although the land is still recessed in the middle, no water has ever been allowed to enter. Three major reasons have prevented his plans
First, the Great Chicago Fire reduced the funds available to do the work.
Second, the Worlds Columbian Exposition occured and the Midway Plaisance was used as part of the area of the Exposition.
Third, this portion of Chicago drains from the East to the West. If water were allowed to enter the area, it would drain Lake Michigan into Washington Park.
The Worlds Columbian Exposition used the Midway Plaisance as an entertainment area with rides and shows. It was such a success that the Term "Midway" has become known as the center route through the rides and entertainment area of carnivals and fairs.
Today the area is used for recreational sports and as an open area to retreat from the hustle and bustle of big city life.