When Did They Start Dyeing the Chicago River Green?
The annual tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green for St. Patrick’s Day began in 1962, transforming the waterway into a vibrant, emerald spectacle celebrated worldwide. This transformation, initially unintended, quickly became a beloved and iconic symbol of Chicago’s Irish heritage and the city’s unique spirit.
The Genesis of Green: A Serendipitous Discovery
The origins of this vibrant tradition are rooted less in grand design and more in pragmatic problem-solving. The Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 played a pivotal role in the river’s transformation, albeit initially for a decidedly un-festive reason.
Tracing Pollution to its Source
In the early 1960s, the Chicago River was heavily polluted, a common issue in many industrial cities at the time. Richard J. Daley, then Mayor of Chicago, was determined to address this problem. The plumbers’ union was tasked with identifying and mapping illegal sewage discharge points polluting the river.
They employed a fluorescein dye, an early form of tracer dye, to track the flow of wastewater and pinpoint its origins. This dye, naturally green, was initially used in small quantities. One day, as the story goes, Stephen Bailey, the business manager of the plumbers’ union, noticed that a plumber testing for these illegal discharges emerged covered in a bright green color. He realized the potential of a larger scale application of the dye to showcase the extent of the problem and, ultimately, to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a unique way.
From Problem-Solving to Celebration
The initial application wasn’t about aesthetic appeal but about identifying environmental hazards. However, the vibrant green hue sparked an idea. Bailey, inspired by the color’s impact and his own Irish heritage, proposed using a specially formulated, environmentally safe dye to turn the entire river green for the St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The idea was presented to Mayor Daley, who, after initial skepticism, approved the plan. And so, in 1962, the tradition was born.
The Secret Formula and its Impact
The exact formula for the dye has always been a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations of the Bailey family, the only ones entrusted with the dyeing process.
More Than Just Green Dye
The dye isn’t merely green food coloring. It’s a vegetable-based powder designed to be environmentally safe and biodegradable. While the exact composition remains a secret, the Baileys have consistently emphasized its commitment to minimizing any negative impact on the river’s ecosystem. It is said that originally it contained 100 pounds of green dye. The current formula is said to use roughly 40 pounds.
A Fleeting Transformation
The green hue typically lasts for only a few hours, dissipating naturally due to the river’s current and the biodegradable nature of the dye. This transience is part of the spectacle, making the annual dyeing a highly anticipated and fleeting event. The precise shade of green can vary depending on weather conditions and the river’s flow.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Chicago River Dyeing
Here are some common questions surrounding the annual Chicago River dyeing tradition:
FAQ 1: Is the Dye Environmentally Safe?
Yes, the dye used today is vegetable-based and biodegradable. The Bailey family has consistently emphasized its commitment to using environmentally safe materials, complying with all relevant regulations and guidelines. Rigorous testing is conducted to ensure minimal impact on the river’s ecosystem.
FAQ 2: Who is Responsible for Dyeing the River?
The Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 are responsible for dyeing the river. The Bailey family has exclusively managed the dyeing process since its inception in 1962, passing down the secret formula and techniques through generations.
FAQ 3: How Long Does the River Stay Green?
The river typically remains green for approximately five hours. The color gradually dissipates due to the river’s current and the biodegradable nature of the dye.
FAQ 4: Where is the Best Place to View the Dyeing?
Popular viewing spots include the east side of Michigan Avenue Bridge, the Wacker Drive area between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive, and the State Street Bridge. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a good viewing location.
FAQ 5: What Time Does the Dyeing Usually Start?
The dyeing usually begins around 9:00 AM CT on the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day. However, it’s always best to check the official St. Patrick’s Day parade and dyeing schedules for any changes to the timing.
FAQ 6: How is the Dye Applied to the River?
The dye is released from two boats cruising along the river. Members of the Plumbers Union sprinkle the dye into the water as the boats move, ensuring an even distribution and vibrant coloring.
FAQ 7: Has the Dyeing Ever Been Canceled?
Yes, the dyeing has been canceled on occasion, usually due to unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather conditions or public health concerns. In 2020 and 2021, the official dyeing was canceled to discourage large gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, though the river was briefly dyed unofficially in 2021.
FAQ 8: How Much Dye is Used Each Year?
The exact amount of dye used is a closely guarded secret. However, it is estimated to be around 40 pounds of powder. This is significantly less than the original amount used in 1962, demonstrating the increased efficiency of the current formula.
FAQ 9: Does the Dye Affect Fish or Other Wildlife?
The environmentally safe, vegetable-based dye is designed to minimize any negative impact on aquatic life. While any artificial substance introduced to a natural environment could theoretically have some effect, the dye is considered to be relatively harmless and biodegradable.
FAQ 10: Why Isn’t the Formula for the Dye Public?
The formula is a closely guarded family secret, passed down through generations of the Bailey family. This tradition ensures the integrity and quality of the dye, as well as maintaining the unique character of the annual event.
FAQ 11: Is There a Parade Associated With the River Dyeing?
Yes, the dyeing typically precedes the downtown Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade is a major event in itself, attracting thousands of spectators each year.
FAQ 12: Can I Participate in Dyeing the River?
No, the dyeing is exclusively handled by the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 and the Bailey family. Public participation is limited to viewing and enjoying the spectacle.
A Chicago Tradition Endures
The annual dyeing of the Chicago River green is more than just a spectacle; it’s a testament to the city’s vibrant Irish heritage, its innovative spirit, and its commitment to both environmental stewardship and festive celebration. From its serendipitous beginnings to its current status as a global phenomenon, the green river remains a symbol of Chicago’s unique identity, attracting visitors from around the world to witness this extraordinary transformation.