Dredged Up:

Ghosts of the Chicago River

About:

This project is a collection of Chicagoland ghost stories centered mainly around the Chicago River and lakeshore areas. The goal of this project is to delve into the ecological framework of ghost stories as well as expand the typical Chicago ghost cannon. Below, you can explore the main map and learn more about the ghost stories included.

To learn more about how place and setting impact these stories and some other classic Chicago ghost tales, you can read on about haunted places here.

To learn more about the methodology behind this project as well as the “ecological ghost story” form, read on here.

Chicago River with downtown skyline and bridge on a cloudy day.

Photo: Art Institute Archive

Ghosts of the Chicago River:

Project References and Influences

This project and its arrangement was influenced by haunted travel and ghost guide books. There are different representations of ‘canon’ ghost stories, more well known figures that have a following. Ghost stories as a genre are a part of different storytelling traditions and my research interests are in folklore studies which has influenced my collection and readings. Below are some of guides which inspired my interest in studying ghost stories and their place in tourism, culture, and spatial ideologies. The story renditions across this project contain supplementary information and outside links to other documentations of the ghosts included, as well as some relevant historical or environmental notes.

Illinois Road Guide to Haunted Locations - Chad Lewis and Terry Fisk

Chicago Ghosts - Rachel Brooks

Chicago Haunts: Ghostlore of the Windy City - Ursula Bielski

Thank you!

Chicago River at dusk with illuminated buildings and a boat, view of downtown Chicago skyline, featuring bridges and skyscrapers.
City skyline at night with tall buildings and river reflection.

Photos: Eliza Marley and Stockvault