History of Illinois’s Largest Mississippi River City
Ahead of the curve since its inception, Illinois has long been known for its history as an important player in Midwest culture and commerce. With the Mississippi River dividing the state in two, the city of East Saint Louis stands out as the largest city in Illinois located on the famous waterway. Located just a few miles east of St. Louis, Missouri, East Saint Louis has a long, historic relationship with its bigger neighbor and the mighty river.
Before European settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by Native Americans of the Illiniwek nation. The area was later controlled by the French and British, but following the 1818 treaty, the area was firmly in the possession of the United States. The initial settlement of East Saint Louis began shortly thereafter, and the population and surrounding towns quickly began to grow.
In 1864, the first railroad bridge was constructed at East Saint Louis, connecting communities near St. Louis and extending beyond the river to the central states. With bigger cars and larger freight, this bridge linked more than just two cities and states–it connected the entire country. This bridge, and subsequent ones like it, opened up access to other regions of the country and began to spell great opportunity and wealth for East Saint Louis.
For years, East Saint Louis and its growing population had to rely on agricultural and railroad industries for their jobs and ways of life. In the early 1900s, however, the city became a manufacturing and industrial powerhouse, making use of all its access to the Mississippi River and its bridges. Steel and glass factories, corn syrup factories, and much more provided employment opportunities for many in the city.
In the last 100 years, East Saint Louis has seen its fair share of modern-day struggles, including social unrest and racial tensions, to poverty and crime. Despite this turbulence, East Saint Louis still remains the largest city in Illinois located directly on the banks of the Mississippi River. It continues to play an important role in the Midwest landscape, contributing to the economy, culture, and history of its longstanding home.
Economy of the City Today
East Saint Louis is still an economic hub in Illinois today, with large fortune 500 companies like Monsanto, Arch Coal, and ABF Freight being based in the city. In addition to corporate giants, the city is home to a variety of small and mid-sized businesses, as well as government and health care institutions.
The impact of East Saint Louis’s economy is felt greatly in the surrounding areas, with it essentially becoming the “economic engine” of a large region. The city’s economy contributes greatly to the growth and success of the region, with its vibrant business environment providing jobs and prosperity for many.
East Saint Louis’s economy is also seen through its growing tourist industry. The city is home to a variety of attractions and activities, from parks to casinos, art galleries, and theaters.
The city also offers plenty of outdoor and recreational activities, with the city’s access to the Mississippi River providing plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports. For those looking for a slower pace, the city also boasts a number of historical sites, including the Cahokia Mounds, which are a UNSECO World Heritage Site.
Past, Present, and Future of East Saint Louis
East Saint Louis has always been a city of great opportunity and promise. During the Industrial Revolution, the city paved the way for economic development, becoming a leader in industry and manufacturing. Today, East Saint Louis still commands a large economic presence in the Midwest, and has a vibrant culture that continues to attract newcomers and visitors from all over.
In recent years, the city has seen an influx of investment and revitalization, with the city government showing an interest in the future of the city and its citizens. Initiatives such as improving the city’s infrastructure, introducing public transportation options, and investing in community projects have grown the city and attracted new businesses, investors, and residents.
Looking ahead, East Saint Louis has the potential to become a major player in the Midwest as an extremely well-connected and accessible city. With its major access to the Mississippi River, it can become a transportation and logistics hub that can spur regional economic development and drive wealth for the entire region. As a city that has always been understood for its potential, East Saint Louis has a bright future ahead of it.
Culture of East Saint Louis
The culture of East Saint Louis is one rooted in history and shaped through a unique mixture of diverse backgrounds and interests. From the immigration waves that shaped the city throughout the years, to the music and art that grew out of the city, there is a vibrant energy and culture that remain today.
The city is home to over 100 churches, representing a variety of denominations, as well as various communities of followers, activists, and more. In addition, East Saint Louis is home to a number of art galleries, performance venues, and museums that showcase a variety of artwork and performances.
The city is perhaps best known for its blues and jazz music scene, which began to emerge in the city starting in the early 1900s. This form of American roots music had a lasting impact on American culture, and East Saint Louis is one of its key places of origin.
Today, there is a variety of music and culture events that take place in East Saint Louis throughout the year, from jazz festivals to music competitions to art exhibitions. These events bring together people from all walks of life, and serve as a reminder of the city’s unique history and culture.
Civil Unrest and History of East Saint Louis
The history of East Saint Louis is not without its share of tragedy and upset. Throughout the city’s history, there have been periods of civil unrest, racial tension, and more. The city was the site of labor clashes, mob violence, and other conflicts that damaged both the city and its people.
In recent decades, the city has seen a reduction in poverty and crime, thanks to investment and revitalization efforts by the city government. However, there is still much work to be done in the area, and there are still many challenges the city faces in the years to come.
That being said, East Saint Louis’s long and complex history has made it an interesting and diverse city. Despite its challenges, East Saint Louis has become a place of hope and a symbol of resilience.
Conclusion
East Saint Louis has come a long way over the years and has left a lasting legacy in the Midwest. As the largest city in Illinois located on the Mississippi River, it continues to be an important part of the region’s economy, culture, and history. Despite the city’s challenges, the people of East Saint Louis remain hopeful for its future and its place in history.
