After opening on Christmas Day 1865, the Union Stock Yard made Chicago the “Hog Butcher for the World.” In its heyday from the Civil War era through the 1920s, Chicago processed more meat than anywhere else in the world. Fueled by the colonialist expansion of railroads and the country’s rapid population growth spurred by European immigration, the stockyards provided meat products as well as jobs across the country.

Board the bus at CHM, then head south to Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood with Dominic Pacyga, professor emeritus of history at Columbia College Chicago. First, stop at the Packingtown Museum to get an overview of the Union Stock Yard’s industrial history, cultural heritage, and surrounding neighborhoods. Next, head back the bus for an exploration of the surrounding area. See related landmarks, such as the Union Stock Yard Gate, St. Gabriel Catholic Church, and Holy Cross Catholic Church. Visit adjacent neighborhoods, such as Back of the Yards, Bronzeville, and Bridgeport, which benefitted from the jobs the stockyards had to offer.

Tour runs 3.5 to 4 hours and begins and ends at the Chicago History Museum.

Masks are optional on bus tours. Learn more about our COVID-19 safety policies and procedures.