Commuting on Lake Michigan

Originally developed as an efficient way of transporting freight cars to the railroad yards in Chicago, Lake Ferries were also used as a source of enjoyment for many people in the Midwest. During the summers, the cargo decks were planked over to provide large dance floors, rooftop gardens, concessions, games and entertainment, including slot machines and card games. These lake charters could hold up to five thousand passengers and would offer daily cruises from Chicago to such destinations as Michigan City and Waukegan. In the winter, the boats would continue to deliver cargo to the railroads, allowing the operators to serve both the economic and social interests of Middle America.