After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, many resident settlers, named the area Pilsen, after the city in what is now the Czech Republic. Many incoming immigrants settled in what is now the Lower West Side in the 1850s and 1860s.
Most of the settlers, especially those that resided in modern day Pilsen and was faced with poor living conditions – overcrowding, flooding and lack of indoor plumbing.
This eventually led to a Cholera outbreak that killed hundreds, resulting in many moving away in search of better living conditions.
Unlike other urban neighborhoods during the early 20th century, the area was home to both affluent residents as well as the working class. Many of these settlers bonded together and created ethnic communities.
The 1950s, though more so the 1960s, saw a spurt of growth from the Latino population as many of them were displaced from other areas, such as modern day University Village neighborhood.
The Lower West Side is home to several neighborhoods, including the Ship Canal Historic District, Cermak Road Bridge Historic District, Heart of Chicago, Pilsen and South Water Market.
Infill development of condominiums for sale and some single-family homes is in full swing in Pilsen. Large loft conversions, rehabbed properties as well as new construction housing are becoming common throughout the community.
The area is serviced by the CTA’s Pink Line and the Metra. the I-55 also passes through the area.
