Blue Island, Illinois

Blue Island is a city in the Chicago Metro area of Cook County, Illinois. Incorporated in 1872, Blue Island has a population of about 23,463. The city has been home to several prominent architects during the 19th and 20th centuries, and many of the homes they designed are still in use, enhancing Blue Island’s suburban charm. The downtown area also retains much of its historic character, and longstanding businesses such as Jebens Hardware (est. 1876) exist alongside antique stores, galleries and restaurants.

Blue Island was settled in 1835, when Norman and Julia Rexford took up residence and established the Blue Island House hotel. As transportation improved with the addition of a canal in 1848, and the Rock Island railroad line in 1852, Blue Island grew steadily. Blue Island sits atop a ridge isolated by the retreat of the glaciers at the end of the last ice age. Rich beds of clay were left behind in the ancient lake bed surrounding the area, and in the 1850s, brick making emerged as a dominant industry which lasted for nearly 100 years. German immigrants began settling in Blue Island at this time, establishing several local breweries. The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, which operated freight yards, maintenance shops and a roundhouse, was also a major Blue Island employer. Other local products included brooms, cigars, dental equipment, and condiments. Although Blue Island experienced some downturn in the late 20th century, as businesses, unable to expand, moved out of the downtown area, other industries continued to thrive. Clark Oil & Refining Company operated until 2001, and Modern Drop Forge Company, begun as a part-time family business in 1914, is still run by descendants of the founders.

Blue Island has a substantial industrial history and a built environment which have put workers at risk for asbestos exposure, and asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, and you are looking for a mesothelioma doctor, scroll down to see a list of those located in and around Blue Island. Additionally, mesothelioma lawyers may be able to give guidance if you were exposed to asbestos in Blue Island and then diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Large Jobsites in Blue Island where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance has compiled information obtained from a number of sources to identify the following large job sites in Blue Island where asbestos exposure was known to have occurred. These sites are listed below. Click on them to get more detailed information.

Other Jobsites in Blue Island where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

These additional jobsites in Blue Island, IL have been identified as harboring asbestos containing materials. These sites, at one point in their history, were known to have exposed a variety of tradesmen to asbestos. We will be documenting in more detail how asbestos exposure occurred at these sites in the future on this web site.

Mesothelioma Cancer Centers Near Blue Island, IL

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma cancer centers that are located within a 100 mile radius of Blue Island, IL. Please click on a cancer center link to obtain more information about the clinical programs offered, professional designations, areas of expertise and how to contact the center.

Mesothelioma Doctors Near Blue Island, IL

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma doctors who are located within a 100 mile radius of Blue Island, IL. Please click on a doctor link to obtain more information about his/her background, areas of expertise, professional affiliations and office locations.