This site, provided by University of Illinois student Graham Garfield, traces the history of Chicago's "L" lines from their inception to the 1980s. The first "L" lines date back to the 19th century and all were privately owned and operated until the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) was formed and took over all of the city's public transportation in 1945-7. Chronologies for different "L" lines are provided, as well historic route maps. Train buffs will especially enjoy the excellent collection of annotated photos of trains and stations.