Michigan Avenue Evolution

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US Honors Local Narrative December 1, 2011 Michigan Avenue, also known as the Magnificent Mile, it is famous for one thing in particular. It’s shopping, located in the heart of Chicago. Most people do not know that Michigan Avenue has many historical ties to it too. Michigan Avenue mostly developed between 1867-1929 but it is still growing today. The main reasons how it has evolved is by economic growth, different interest and geographically, which all affect it’s heartland, the city of Chicago. Starting in 1870’s Michigan Avenue really started to develop. Major buildings began to be built. For example, The Exposition Building, The Chicago Post Office, The Custom House, Cook County Court House, City Hall, Cook County Criminal Court Building and Jail, Woman’s Ward Administration Building, Chicago Board of Trade, Illinois Athletic Club, Monroe Building, Willoughboy Building, Crear Library, The Chicago Tribune Building, The Allerton Crowne Plaza, Hotel Inter-Continental, The Drake Hotel. All of these were devolved around Michigan Avenue which helped expand Chicago. The town had to start its growth all over due to the famous Chicago Fire in 1871. The town used the Water Tower to symbolize the rebirth and regeneration throughout Chicago. These buildings created more economic growth because people have jobs due to the geographical growth of the city. There are many opportunities on Michigan Avenue which is why it is now known as the economic and cultural capital of the Midwest. Chicago offers tourist attractions and cultural events all because of the development of Michigan Avenue. These tourists come to Chicago due to their different interest because there are many things to do. Tourists provide Chicago with more money showing that Michigan Avenue contributes to the economic growth of Chicago as a whole. Geographically, Michigan Avenue has grown many blocks

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