Fourth annual review of the commerce, railroads, and manufactures of Chicago, for the year 1855

the long version

This annual report contains a number of descriptive articles about economic activity in Chicago, then provides data-based reports on the following topics, as well as others: -Quantities of the following commodities shipped to Chicago (among others): flour, wheat, corn, oats, rye, butter, hogs, beef, lumber, wool, coal. -Great Lakes vessels arriving at the city, including names, type and tonnage. -Value of manufactured items shipped from the city. -A section with brief individual reports of production at dozens of manufacturing firms. -Construction: Descriptions of significant building projects underway or prospective, at churches, schools, and businesses. Also public works and large residences. -There is a separate report for the many railroads centered in Chicago or operating in the region, with descriptive info, freight data and financial data for each.