Alright, everyone! I’m currently in Cairo, Illinois, a small city with a fascinating history. Located at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, Cairo was once a major transportation hub in the mid to late 1800s, bustling with river traffic and a thriving ferry business. However, the city’s population began to decline with the advent of trains and the construction of bridges. Cairo has faced racial tensions, business decline, and economic hardships, resulting in a drop in population and a high poverty rate of 36.15%. Today, the city is in a state of disrepair, with abandoned buildings and decay visible throughout. Cairo is renowned for its historic district, Millionaires Row, showcasing magnificent mansions from the 1800s. However, the city is on the brink of becoming a ghost town, with a projected population decline in the next seven to ten years.
Historical Background of Cairo
Cairo’s Location at the Confluence
Cairo, Illinois is situated at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, making it a significant location in terms of transportation and trade. The Ohio River begins in Pittsburgh and winds its way through various cities before meeting the Mississippi in Cairo. This confluence is known to be the widest spot in the Mississippi. In the mid to late 1800s, when river travel was a major form of transportation, Cairo became a bustling city due to its strategic location. It served as a hub for river traffic and had a booming ferry business, as there were no bridges at the time.
Cairo as a Transportation Hub
During its glory days, Cairo was a major transportation hub. The city saw a constant flow of river traffic and had a thriving ferry business. Trains also played a significant role in the city’s transportation system, bringing goods and people to and from Cairo. However, as trains moved to larger cities like Chicago and bridges were constructed, the need for ferries diminished, leading to a decline in the city’s importance as a transportation hub.
Population Growth and Decline
Cairo experienced rapid population growth in the late 1800s, with the city’s peak population reaching over 15,000 in 1920. However, as the transportation industry shifted away from Cairo, the city began to decline. This decline was exacerbated by racial tensions and economic struggles. Today, the population of Cairo stands at a mere 1,733 as per the 2020 census.
Racial Tensions and Economic Decline
Racial Tensions in Cairo
Cairo has a history of racial tensions, especially during the civil rights movement in the 1960s. At one point, almost half of the city’s population was Black, making Cairo one of the cities with the highest percentage of Black residents. Racial discrimination and unfair treatment led to boycotts by the Black community, resulting in the closure of many white-owned businesses. This further contributed to the city’s economic decline.
Decline in Businesses and Population
With the decline of transportation and the racial tensions in the city, many businesses left Cairo, resulting in a decline in the city’s economy. The city witnessed the closure of numerous stores and an overall decline in commercial activity. As businesses left, so did residents, leading to a significant drop in population over the years.
High Poverty Rate
Cairo’s economic decline has had a profound impact on its population, with the poverty rate reaching as high as 36.15%. The lack of employment opportunities and economic stability has contributed to the high poverty rate, making it difficult for residents to thrive and improve their quality of life.
Current State of Cairo
Abandoned Buildings and Decay
One of the most visible aspects of Cairo’s current state is the abundance of abandoned buildings and their decay. As businesses closed and residents left, many structures were left vacant and neglected. The once-bustling downtown area now showcases dilapidated buildings, broken windows, and crumbling facades. The state of decay is a stark contrast to the grandeur and prosperity the city once enjoyed.
Historic District: Millionaires Row
Despite its overall decline, Cairo still boasts a historic district known as “Millionaires Row.” This district features large mansions from the 1800s, showcasing the city’s past wealth and prestige. Although many of these mansions are in disrepair, some still retain their architectural beauty, serving as a reminder of Cairo’s prosperous history.
Low Home Prices
Due to Cairo’s economic decline and the abundance of vacant properties, the average home price in the city is significantly lower than the national average. This low cost of housing may attract individuals or families looking for affordable housing options. However, the declining population and economic instability make it challenging for residents to invest in the revitalization and maintenance of their properties.
Projected Population Drop
Unfortunately, Cairo is on the verge of becoming a ghost town. The projected population drop within the next seven to ten years raises concerns about the city’s future. With a shrinking tax base and limited resources, maintaining the city’s infrastructure and historic buildings becomes increasingly challenging.
Observations of the Building
Building’s Historical Importance
The building being observed in Cairo holds historical importance as it is listed on the national registry and has undergone restoration efforts. Its architectural significance adds to the overall historical value of the city, showcasing its past prosperity and grandeur.
Debate Over Building’s Condition
There is some debate over the current condition of the observed building. Rust on railings, hornet or wasp nests, and filthy overhangs are mentioned as signs of neglect and disrepair. However, the restoration efforts in the past demonstrate a commitment to preserving the building’s historical significance.
Maintenance Challenges
Maintaining historic buildings in Cairo presents significant challenges due to the city’s declining population and shrinking tax base. Limited resources make it difficult to allocate funds for regular maintenance, resulting in the deterioration of many buildings over time.
Residential Presence in the Area
Despite the overall decline of the city, there are still a few houses in the observed area. Some houses are in good condition, while others are boarded up and empty. The presence of residents in certain buildings reflects a sense of resilience among those who still call Cairo home.
Narrator’s Street Walk
Location of Car Dealership
During the street walk, the narrator encounters various points of interest. One notable location is a car dealership, which showcases some level of commercial activity in the city.
Observations of Car Wash
The narrator also observes a car wash in the area, indicating that there are still services available for the remaining residents and visitors. However, the condition of the car wash and its surroundings may reflect the overall decline in upkeep and maintenance.
Presence of Churches
Another noteworthy observation made by the narrator is the presence of churches in Cairo. These religious institutions serve as community gathering places and provide a sense of hope and stability in the midst of economic decline.
Empty Buildings
Throughout the street walk, the narrator discovers numerous vacant and empty buildings. These structures, once occupied by thriving businesses and residents, now stand as reminders of the city’s economic struggles and declining population.
Concerns and Future of Cairo
Population Decline and Shrinking Tax Base
Cairo’s projected population drop and shrinking tax base pose significant concerns for the city’s future. With fewer resources available, maintaining essential infrastructure, including historic buildings, becomes increasingly challenging. The loss of businesses and residents further exacerbates the economic struggles faced by Cairo.
Condition of Houses
The decline in upkeep and maintenance is evident in the condition of many houses in Cairo. While some properties remain in good shape, extensive decay and neglect can be observed in others. Preserving and revitalizing these houses will require substantial investments and community efforts.
Hope for Preservation
Though Cairo faces numerous challenges, there is hope for the preservation of its historic buildings and heritage. Efforts from local organizations, government entities, and passionate individuals can make a significant impact on the city’s revitalization. Recognizing the historical significance of Cairo and its potential for tourism and economic development may serve as a driving force for preservation efforts.
Featured Individual in Future Videos
The video concludes by mentioning Nicole, who will be featured in future videos. Nicole’s presence represents the resilience and determination of Cairo’s residents to preserve their city’s heritage and create a better future.
Conclusion
Cairo, Illinois, is a town with a fascinating history, but unfortunately, it has fallen into a state of disrepair and economic decline. Racial tensions, population decline, and a high poverty rate have contributed to the current state of the city. Abandoned buildings, decay, and the projected population drop raise concerns about Cairo’s future. However, there is hope for preservation and revitalization, with the beauty of Millionaires Row, low home prices, and the resilience of the remaining residents. With collective efforts and a focus on preserving Cairo’s historical significance, there is potential for a brighter future for this once-thriving city.