after the 1800's what type of manufacturing was chicago know for?
Meat packing.
It also had the steel mills on the southeast side.
Carl Sandburg (1878–1967). Chicago Poems. 1916.
1. Chicago
HOG Butcher for the World,
Tool Maker, Stacker of Wheat,
Player with Railroads and the Nation’s Freight Handler;
Stormy, husky, brawling,
City of the Big Shoulders:
After the 1800s, Chicago was widely known for its prominence in heavy industry and manufacturing. Specifically, it became a major hub for the production of steel, meatpacking, and the manufacturing of various industrial goods.
To understand why Chicago excelled in these areas, we need to look back at its history. In the mid-19th century, the city had access to several important resources that contributed to its manufacturing growth. Firstly, it was strategically located in the heartland of the United States, at the intersection of major waterways and railway lines. This ensured easy transportation of raw materials and finished products. Additionally, the city was situated near an abundance of natural resources, such as iron ore, coal, and timber, which were essential for heavy industry.
With these advantages, Chicago's manufacturing sector experienced accelerated growth. Steel production became a prominent industry in the city, bolstered by the availability of iron ore and other raw materials. Companies like the Illinois Steel Company and U.S. Steel played a crucial role in making Chicago the center of steel production in the region.
Furthermore, Chicago became renowned for its meatpacking industry. The city's central location allowed for efficient transportation of livestock from the West, while refrigerated train cars enabled the shipment of processed meat to eastern markets. Companies like Swift and Armour established massive meatpacking plants in Chicago, transforming it into the "Hog Butcher for the World."
Apart from steel and meatpacking, Chicago also excelled in manufacturing industrial goods. Its productive workforce and technological advancements attracted companies specializing in machinery, machine tools, furniture, and other industrial products. This diversification further solidified Chicago's reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse.
Overall, after the 1800s, Chicago became famous for its steel production, meatpacking industry, and the manufacturing of various industrial goods. Its strategic location, access to resources, and efficient transportation systems played vital roles in fostering this manufacturing prowess.