Joliet Army Ammunition Plant - Pre-World War II

Pre-World War II

Before the Second World War, the land in Jackson Township, Will County, Illinois where the Joliet Arsenal was built consisted mostly of small family farms some of which were owned and managed by descendents of pioneer Illinois settlers. The federal government acquired some of the land in Jackson Township to build the Joliet Arsenal through eminent domain. Prior to the plants construction, there were 450 farms that had to be vacated by March 1, 1941. Initially there was some resistance from local farmers relating to prices and moving problems, but 90% of the land was paid for through negotiated settlements. The entire land acquisition cost the government $5 million dollars for the 40,000-acre (160 km2) project. Ten preexisting farmhouses were moved from their original locations and used as staff housing. Six cemeteries were also on the property and they were maintained in place by the operating contractor.