Administrative/Biographical History
The Joliet Steel Works began in 1869 located on Collins Street in the north side of Joliet. It was created by the Union Coal, Iron & Transportation Company and provided a multitude of job opportunities for many people of diverse ethnic backgrounds and was the economic backbone of Joliet. At one time the company provided jobs for 2,000 men. By 1873 the steel works took on the name Joliet Iron and Steel Company and in 1879 changed its name again to Joliet Steel Company. In 1889 Illinois Steel bought the Joliet Steel Company and renamed it to Collins Street Works of Illinois Steel. Joliet was named the “City of Steel”and the industrial area where the steel mills were located were called the “Ruhr Valley,” or the “Smoky Row.” Joliet Steel was innovative not only with its steel works but also with the companies relationship with the workers. Not only were services provided at the Steel Works Club, but also a newsletter, “The Mixer,” was created to encourage safety in the work place due to large amounts of accidents. The Steel Works Club was created in 1889 for the employees of the steel works and their families for a fee of two dollars. The club provided families with cultural experience, social activities, entertainment, and recreation. A visiting nurse was also provided to club members and their families. In 1932, Joliet Steel Works shut down due to the great depression.
