For 150 years, Peoples Gas has
supplied the residents and businesses of Chicago and northeastern Illinois
with reliable and safe natural gas service, while contributing to the growth
of Chicago as one of the nation's best largest cities.
Key Highlights
1848
A group of prominent citizens apply to the Illinois legislature for
incorporation to begin the manufacture of gas for the city's streets
and houses. The charter was signed in 1849.
1850
Peoples Gas becomes the
first utility in the city of Chicago when it lights the city's streets
with natural gas lamps.
1871
Peoples Gas helps the city
rebuild after the Great Chicago Fire.
1893
Electricity is introduced at the Columbia Exposition.
Peoples Gas shifts its business
from gas lighting to cooking with natural gas.
1895-1910
Twelve gas companies merge under the direction of President C.K.G.
Billings, Jr. to become the Peoples Gas
Light & Coke Co.
1932
Peoples Gas constructs
the first long-distance, high-pressure, steel natural gas pipeline
from north Texas to Chicago, allowing for the first-time industrial
usage of natural gas.
1962
For the first time, Peoples Gas
is able to meet all demands by Chicago residents for natural gas to
heat their homes, helping to clean up Chicago by diminishing its reliance
on coal and oil to heat homes.
1964
Peoples Gas purchases
North Shore Natural Gas in Lake County.
1980
Peoples Gas spins off
its non-utility companies and exits the pipeline business, changing its
name to Peoples Energy Corporation.
2007
Peoples Energy merges with WPS Resources to become Integrys Energy
Group, Inc.
