The Chicago "L"

Discover the world-famous Chicago L - in all its grit and glory.

The thundering L is one of Chicago's most enduring icons. Operating 247 since 1892, it is not only an antique but a working antique. More than 10 billion people have ridden the L, which now carries half a million people a day over 222 miles of track. The heavy, rumbling L has a light side too. It is sought out by tourists, featured in major motion pictures, enjoyed by wide-eyed kids, photographed by admirers, and studied by historians. Meanwhile, both the Smithsonian Institution and the Chicago History Museum have recently enshrined Chicago L cars as the showpiece of major permanent exhibits. The Chicago L shows how the early L lines helped to build Chicago as well as how today's L helps to revitalize neighborhoods and tie the city together. Over the past 100 years, the L has survived numerous attempts to tear it down. Today its future is secure. New services are being added and new lines planned. This educating and entertaining book brings the tenacious L to life.