Three years after the area became part of Jefferson Township in 1850, it had its first European settler – Abraham Harris. The area is rumored to have been named in honor of miners and rescue worked who may have died in Avondale coal mine fire in 1869.
Factories and industry sprang up due to the Chicago River and the area’s extensive network and transportation accessibility.
Incorporated as a village in 1869, Avondale finally became part of Chicago in 1889. Industry and manufacturing grew especially at the beginning of the 20th century due to the extensive transportation network, Chicago River on its eastern border, railway corridors and growth of streetcars. Florsheim Shoes, Olson Rug and Dad’s Root Beer were some of the major industry attracted to the area.
Manicured residential streets include mostly iconic bungalows along with two and three flat walk ups. Though in recent years, newer constructed condominiums and townhomes have been built along the busier streets to meet demand.
One of Chicago’s Lost Wonders was located here – the Olsen Park Waterfall, built by the owner of Olsen Rug, an artificial mountain and 35-foot waterfall was built next to the factory and became a destination for the next several decades.
The CTA Blue Line passes through the neighborhood going through other northwest neighborhoods on the way to O’Hare.
