Chicago grew and prospered largely because of its waterways, the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Both of them provided water, food, transportation, and fun for area residents. These waterways are represented on the city’s flag by two blue stripes.

In today’s activity, discover how the Chicago River has changed over time. Then have fun creating and singing a song together about the river to the tune of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.” Share your song with us on social media! #CHMatHomeFamilies

ABOUT THE CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

The Chicago History Museum is situated on ancestral homelands of the Potawatomi people, who cared for the land until forced out by non-Native settlers. Established in 1856, the Museum is now at 1601 N. Clark Street in Lincoln Park, its third location. As a major museum and research center for Chicago and U.S. history, the Chicago History Museum strives to be a destination for learning, inspiration and civic engagement. Through dynamic exhibitions, tours, publications, special events and programming, the Museum connects people to Chicago’s history and to each other. To share Chicago stories, the Museum collects and preserves millions of artifacts, documents, images and other items that are relevant to the city’s history. The Museum gratefully acknowledges the support of the Chicago Park District on behalf of the people of Chicago.