Burnside, Chicago facts for kids

Burnside is one of the 77 official community areas in Chicago, Illinois. It's located on the city's south side and is known for being the smallest community area by population. In 2016, only 2,254 people lived there, making it a very quiet and close-knit neighborhood.

Discover Burnside: A Unique Chicago Neighborhood

Burnside is a special part of Chicago, often called "The Triangle" by the people who live there. This nickname comes from its unique shape, which is created by railroad tracks surrounding it on all sides. Imagine a triangle with train tracks forming its edges!

Why is Burnside Called "The Triangle"?

The railroad tracks that give Burnside its nickname are:

• The Illinois Central Railroad on the west side.
• The Rock Island Railroad on the south side.
• The Nickel Plate Railroad (which is now called Norfolk-Southern) on the east side.

These busy train lines have shaped the area and given it a distinct boundary, making it easy to see why locals call it "The Triangle."

Where is Burnside Located in Chicago?

Burnside is situated on the south side of Chicago. It's surrounded by other well-known communities. For a long time, people thought Burnside was just a part of the nearby Roseland or Chatham communities. However, it eventually became recognized as its own distinct community area, with its own identity and history.

Burnside's Small Community

Even though Chicago is a very large city, Burnside stands out because of its small population. It's the least populated of all Chicago's 77 community areas. This means it has a more quiet and residential feel compared to some of the busier parts of the city. It's a place where neighbors might know each other well, creating a strong sense of community.