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American Experience
Chicago's Grain Elevators
Although the grain elevator was invented in Buffalo, the grain elevator system came into being in Chicago—the city built its first in 1848, and by 1858 twelve mammoth grain houses dominated its skyline. By 1861, Chicago's grain trade had increased to 50 million bushels annually -- a rise of over 48 million bushels in a decade -- supporting the city's boast that it fed the world.
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