What follows is a brief history of the Bloomingdale as currently understood. It by no means claims to be complete; if you have information that can fill in the gaps, or clarify or correct what’s listed here, please let us know and we’ll add your suggestions.

1872: Proposed railroad for Bloomingdale Ave approved
After the Great Chicago Fire, the City Council grants Chicago & Pacific Railroad permission to build on Bloomingdale Ave to serve a small manufacturing district across the city’s Northwest Side. Initially, the track is laid at street level.

1893: City Council orders all tracks elevated
As the city grew more congested, a viable way was needed for trains to co-exist with other traffic. The Council approves an ordinance requiring the railroads to elevate all tracks citywide within 6 years.

1910: The Bloomingdale is to be elevated
The Council orders the railroad to elevate at its own expense its “Bloomingdale road tracks” between Ashland and Lawndale.

1980s: Activity on the line slows to a trickle
By the early 1990s, only one train per week passes through, at no more than 8 miles per hour. A few years later, freight service ceases completely.

For a more detailed history of the Bloomingdale Line, 1870 - 1935, check out Ted Pankoke's "A Simple History of Chicago's
Bloomingdale Rail Line Circe 1870 - 1935."