Memorial to the Government of the United States from the Citizens of Chicago, Ill. Setting forth the Advantages of the City as a Site for a National Armory and Foundry

This rather self-explanatory report, printed shortly after the outbreak of the Civil War, outlines a compelling argument for why Chicago would be an excellent spot for a new federal armory and foundry. Descriptive text notes the convenient regional geography, abundant natural resources, and financial incentives (like cheap labor). A large fold-out map highlights the robust regional transportation network (railroads, navigable waterways, and canals) across the Midwest, emphasizing the Windy City’s central location. An inset notes the statewide local availability of coal, lead, etc.