The Illinois Michigan Canal was a waterway extending from the south branch of the Chicago River to the Illinois River at LaSalle.   Cities and towns along the course of the canal include: Chicago, Willow Springs, Lemont, Romeoville, Lockport, Joliet, Channahan, Aux Sable, Morris, Marseilles, Seneca, Ottawa, Utica, and LaSalle.  The length of the canal was approximately 96 miles.  There were multiple locks along the course of the canal.  There were also aqueducts at aux Sable, Fox River, Little Vermilion River and the Nettle Creek.

After multiple abortive attempts due to financial issues, work on the canal was begun in 1836.  Work was completed in 1848..  The long time for construction was due in large part to financial issues with interruption of the work for years.  The canal was dug by hand and use of explosives.   Canal workers were of multiple nationalities such as Polish, German, and Irish.  The bulk of the workers were Irish.   Wages were approximately $1 day.  Hours were long and work was difficult.