Joliet, Illinois – Route 66 in the Chicago Suburbs – Legends of America
Nestled within the sprawling landscape of Illinois, Joliet stands as a significant suburb of Chicago and the proud county seat of Will County. Home to a vibrant community of approximately 150,000 residents, Joliet boasts a rich history that intertwines with the iconic Route 66, earning it a place among the legendary landmarks of America.
A Glimpse into the Past: From "Juliet" to Joliet
The origins of Joliet’s name can be traced back to the French Canadian explorer Louis Jolliet, who ventured into this region in the fall of 1673. Jolliet’s initial exploration led to the area being referred to as "Juliet," likely a derivative of his name. In his accounts, Jolliet painted a vivid picture of a land teeming with abundant game, vast prairies, and lush forests.
While a settlement already existed, the official establishment of the town occurred in 1834. The Des Plaines River and the region’s fertile soil served as magnets, drawing early settlers who found ample reasons to call this place home. As the town flourished, it evolved into a bustling hub of activity.
The National Hotel: A Social Hub of Bygone Eras
In 1837, construction commenced on the renowned National Hotel, which swiftly became a pivotal social center for Joliet. This grand establishment played host to numerous balls and social gatherings, becoming synonymous with the city’s burgeoning social scene.
By 1838, Joliet proudly showcased a courthouse, complete with a jail ingeniously built into the basement, hewn from solid rock. In the early days, the courthouse also served as a place of worship. In 1848, a newer, more refined courthouse replaced the original structure. The opening of the Illinois & Michigan Canal in the same year propelled Joliet into an era of aggressive industrial and residential development. Unfortunately, the National Hotel was destroyed by fire in 1958, leaving a void in the city’s architectural landscape.
"Stone City": Mills, Factories, and Limestone Quarries
As Joliet grew, mills and factories emerged, transforming the city into an industrial powerhouse. The discovery of rich limestone deposits further fueled the city’s growth, giving rise to a thriving quarrying industry. Like its neighbor Romeoville, Joliet earned the moniker "Stone City," a testament to its prominence in stone production.
The Joliet Opera House: A Stage for Entertainment and Revival
In 1873, the Joliet Opera House was erected at the northwest corner of Chicago and Clinton Streets, at a cost of $60,000. The Opera House opened on February 2, 1874, hosting a diverse range of events, from burlesque shows to religious revivals. In the summer of 1890, plans were announced for a $15,000 expansion project. However, the Opera House was consumed by fire in March 1891. Undeterred, the Opera House was rebuilt in the same location the following year and continued to serve the community for many years.
The Jacob A. Henry Mansion: A Renaissance Revival Masterpiece
In 1876, Jacob A. Henry, a railroad magnate, commissioned the construction of a magnificent 16,800-square-foot mansion using limestone sourced from his own quarry. The 40-room home was lavishly adorned with walnut and oak fixtures, including a solid walnut staircase featuring 119 hand-carved octagonal spindles. Today, the home stands as a museum and is considered Illinois’s largest and finest example of Renaissance Revival architecture.
The Steel Industry and its Legacy
The abundance of soft coal in the area made Joliet an ideal location for the burgeoning steel industry in the late 1800s. Soon, Joliet established itself as a steel town, attracting a wave of new residents seeking employment opportunities. However, the Joliet Steel Works eventually became unprofitable and ceased operations in the early 1980s.
Today, the ruins of the old iron and steelworks are preserved as a state historic site. A 1.5-mile trail near the old Illinois and Michigan Canal offers visitors interpretive signs and views of the remains of the Joliet Iron Works, providing a glimpse into the city’s industrial past.
Joliet’s Union Station: A Grand Terminal of a Bygone Era
Joliet’s Union Station, constructed in 1912, once catered to the glamorous rail travelers of the early 1900s. The station boasted a Grand Ballroom, crystal chandeliers, and soaring 45-foot ceilings. Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its architectural significance.
The Rialto Theater: A Timeless Treasure of the Arts
On May 24, 1926, the Rialto Theater opened its doors, revealing a stunning reflection of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine architecture. On opening night, theater-goers paid 50 cents to see the silent movie "Mademoiselle Modiste." The theater served the public for years, undergoing a complete restoration in 1980 and continuing to offer a wide selection of performances today.
The Louis Joliet Hotel: A Landmark of Elegance and Luxury
The Louis Joliet Hotel, built in 1927, was the finest in Joliet, known for its legendary elegance and luxury. The eight-story hotel featured 225 rooms above a two-story central lobby and lounge, complete with a large fireplace and a hand-carved Bedford stone mantel. The hotel operated until 1964, and the building was designated a national landmark in 1989. It has recently been converted into 56 apartments, contributing to the revitalization of Joliet’s City Center.
McDonald’s: A Route 66 Staple
On December 26, 1956, Peter and Helen Cinquegrani opened the first McDonald’s Restaurant in the Joliet area on West Jefferson Street. The flickering red and white neon arches enjoyed tremendous success, attracting many Route 66 travelers who stopped for a 15-cent hamburger or French Fries for just ten cents.
Joliet Today: A Tourist Destination
Once an industrial city, Joliet, with a population of just over 100,000, has reinvented itself today as a tourist destination providing numerous historic sites and entertainment activities. While traveling through Joliet, look for the many larger-than-life murals all over town, visit the Rialto Theater, and cross the Ruby Street Bridge on old Route 66.
The Joliet Historical Museum at 204 N. Ottawa Street includes a Route 66 Welcome Center.
For those following Route 66, the old highway follows Illinois Highway 53 to Wilmington, about continues for 16 miles to the south.
Joliet’s transformation from an industrial center to a vibrant tourist destination reflects its ability to adapt and embrace its rich heritage. As visitors explore the city’s historic sites, cultural attractions, and Route 66 landmarks, they gain a deeper appreciation for Joliet’s enduring spirit and its place in American history.