Ever wondered about a place named for a failed railway scheme? Welcome to Clearing. This southwest Chicago neighborhood boasts a fascinating history. It wasn’t always bustling streets and homes. Once upon a time Dutch and German farmers dotted the landscape. A prominent figure Senator and Mayor Long John Wentworth owned a vast estate here. He even built a house in 1868. This land later became part of Clearing Garfield Ridge and Summit.
The name Clearing is a curious tale. It originated from a proposed railway switching yard. A. B. Stickney’s ambitious plan in 1888 envisioned a one-mile circle. This was meant to alleviate downtown rail congestion. Sadly Stickney’s Circle failed becoming Stickney’s Folly. Undeterred Stickney tried again with the Chicago National Stockyards. The 1893-1897 economic depression hampered his efforts.
Despite the failed railway plans Clearing thrived. In 1909 George Hill opened a hardware store. This was among the first businesses. Three years later residents voted to incorporate as a village. The Chicago Transfer and Clearing Company changed things. They connected the freight car switching hub to 18 industries. This led to Clearing’s annexation to Chicago in 1915.
The Clearing Industrial District exploded. From 18 industries in 1915 it grew to over 90 by 1928. In 1926 the Chicago Public Schools leased land for an airport. Mayor William Hale Thompson dedicated Chicago Municipal Airport in 1927. This later became Midway Airport a name honoring World War II victories.
Post-war Clearing boomed. Its population soared from 6068 in 1940 to 24911 in 1970. The Bedford-Clearing Industrial District flourished with around 300 firms. The 1974-1984 recession hit hard. Over half of the companies left. The number of firms dropped to 175. Employment plummeted from 50000 to just over 19000. Midway Airport’s resurgence brought some stability.
Today Clearing stands as a testament to resilience. From its humble farming origins to industrial growth and economic challenges. This southwest Chicago neighborhood tells a story of ambition failure and enduring spirit. Remember Stickney’s Folly and the area that refused to be forgotten. Clearing’s story continues to unfold.