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Chicago's historic Water Tower and Pumping Station are built by William Boyington at Michigan Avenue (then-Pine Street) and Chicago Avenue. The construction lasts from 1867-69.
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The Chicago Plan is created by local developers to transform Michigan Avenue from an Indian trading post into a major commercial boulevard. The plan includes widening the streets and constructing a bridge so that the avenue will resemble Paris' Champs Elysees.
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The idea of the Michigan Avenue Bridge -- after much political debate-- is born. The bridge will connect the "old" South part of the street with the "new" North part -- and create a gateway to the city's new commercial district.
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From 1920 until 1929, Chicago experiences a building boom. One of Michigan Avenue's first skyscrapers, the Chicago Tribune Building, was commissioned during this time period, as well as several others: the Wrigley Building, the Drake Hotel and The Allerton Crowne Plaza.
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After the depression, the leader of The Greater North Michigan Avenue Association launches the "Magnificent Mile" promotion to renovate and build new buildings and park space, taking a giant step toward the street's transfomation into a center of retail and culture.
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The John Hancock Center opens on Michigan Avenue and is the tallest building in the world --at that time -- peaking at 100 stories.
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1981 marks the start of the 13-year, second building boom on the avenue. Many buildings are completed or renovated during this time, including: the 600, 626 and 900 N. Michigan Avenue buildings, Chicago Place and Crate & Barrel.
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The Greater North Michigan Avenue Association gets trademark rights for the Chicago's Magnificent Mile name, brand and marks.
