Pullman and Lake Calumet

Speaking Event: The Evolution of Lake Calumet – From Duck Pond to Industrial Hub

Join us for an engaging presentation that unravels the fascinating history of Lake Calumet, a hidden gem of Chicago’s industrial and natural heritage.

Formed over 2,000 years ago by the retreating waters of Lake Michigan, Lake Calumet was once a premier duck hunting spot, affectionately dubbed "Stephen Douglas Duck Pond" in the 1850s. By 1873, this serene landscape took a dramatic turn when Col. James H. Bowen persuaded George Pullman and his investors to acquire land on the lake's western shore. With Bowen as his “secret buyer,” Pullman eventually purchased over 3,000 acres to construct his visionary factory town.

The lake played a vital role in Pullman’s plans, providing clay for his brickyard and serving as the site of the famed Athletic Island, which hosted sports events and regattas. Over the decades, the Pullman Company expanded its reach, filling in over 200 acres of the lake’s western shore, which remained tax-free. During World War II, this area transformed into a bustling shipyard, later evolving into an international harbor by 1956.

Today, Lake Calumet may have shrunk to just over 250 acres, but it remains legally an Illinois lake. It’s home to Harsodie International and a world-class golf course while still serving as a vital stop for ducks and geese on their migratory flyway—echoing its storied past as North America’s premier hunting spot.

Using 80 captivating images, this talk will take you on a journey through Lake Calumet’s transformation, from its natural origins to its industrial and recreational legacy. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore a piece of Chicago’s rich history.

Biography:

Host or Publisher Historic Pullman Foundation and the Pullman Civic Organization