CTA Tattler

"The Chicago 'L' " book tells rich stories in photos and words

The Chicago "L" is a new book that covers the history of the "L" up to today through 240 photographs, many of which have never before been published. It was released today.

Operating 24/7 since 1892, the world famous Chicago "L" carries half a million people everyday over 222 miles of track. But the heavy, rumbling "L" has a lighter side, too. It is sought out by tourists, featured in major motion pictures, enjoyed by wide-eyed kids, photographed by admirers, and studied by historians. Both the Smithsonian and the Chicago History Museum have recently enshrined Chicago "L" cars as the showpiece of major permanent exhibits.

To tell the story of this celebrated transit system, including a look at its precursors, "The Chicago L" draws on captivating historical photographs, drawings, and maps. Most of the images were culled from the Chicago Transit Authority’s vast photo archives; others were gathered from libraries, museums, schools, vendors, and individuals across the country.

Author Greg Borzo was born a few steps from the "L," enjoys riding it almost everyday, and gives history tours of several "L" lines. Formerly the editor of Modern Railroads magazine, he is now a science writer at Chicago’s Field Museum. Ride with him — through space and time — over one of America’s greatest urban treasures, this massive structure of 19th Century riveted steel that is one of Chicago’s most enduring icons, pulsing from the heart of the Loop out into the surrounding neighborhoods and suburbs. This educating and entertaining ride brings the "L" to life.

More than 10 billion people have ridden the "L," which over the years has survived numerous attempts to tear it down. Today the future of the "L" is secure. New services are being added and new lines planned. "The Chicago L" shows how the early "L" lines helped to build Chicago as well as how today’s "L" helps to revitalize neighborhoods and tie the city together. This book will help you discover the "L" -- in all its grit and glory.

[PHOTO CAPTION:] Chicago's L started running in 1892 on the South Side. Yes, that's a steam locomotive pulling the train! It was not until 1897 that the line converted to electricity adopting the third-rail technology that had been pioneered at the World's Columbian Exposition. So add the "L" to the list of innovations that came out of the Fair, including Cracker Jacks and the Ferris Wheel.

[PHOTO CREDIT:] Courtesy of the Chicago Transit Authority