In Chicago, the concept of zero streets stems from a numbering system proposed by Edward Paul Brennan in 1904. Brennan suggested that State and Madison Streets should be designated as the dividing line for this system, with their intersection serving as the starting point, or “zero, zero.” This idea was later accepted and passed by the City Council of Chicago in 1908.
The zero streets in Chicago refer to the streets that intersect with State and Madison Streets, which serve as the baseline for the city’s numbering system. This system is used to assign addresses and determine the location of various buildings and establishments throughout the city.
One might wonder why State and Madison Streets were chosen as the zero point. The decision was likely influenced by the fact that these two streets are among the most prominent and well-known in Chicago. State Street is historically considered the city’s main north-south thoroughfare, while Madison Street is a major east-west street.
By designating State and Madison Streets as the zero point, it allows for a logical and consistent numbering system throughout the city. Streets running north and south from State Street are designated as either east or west, depending on their location in relation to State Street. Similarly, streets running east and west from Madison Street are designated as either north or south, based on their position relative to Madison Street.
For example, a building located at 500 North State Street would be on the north side of Madison Street and five blocks north of the zero point. Similarly, a building at 800 West Madison Street would be on the west side of State Street and eight blocks west of the zero point.
This numbering system makes it relatively easy to navigate the city and find specific addresses. It provides a standardized way of locating places, which is especially useful for residents, visitors, and businesses in Chicago.
As an Chicago resident myself, I can attest to the convenience and simplicity of the zero streets system. It has become second nature to navigate the city using this numbering system, and it has proven to be a reliable and efficient method for locating addresses.
The zero streets in Chicago refer to the streets that intersect with State and Madison Streets, which serve as the baseline for the city’s numbering system. This system, proposed by Edward Paul Brennan in 1904 and accepted by the City Council in 1908, provides a consistent and logical way of assigning addresses and locating buildings throughout the city. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding the zero streets system makes navigating Chicago much easier.