Chicago Heights was an important stop on the Lincoln Highway and became known as the “Crossroads of the Nation” for the famed intersection of the Lincoln and Dixie Highways. The McEldowney Bridge, where the Lincoln Highway crossed Thorn Creek, included separate, protected pedestrian walkways and concrete lanterns, features welcomed to meet the needs of heavier traffic on the Lincoln Highway. Henry C. Ostermann, the Lincoln Highway Association Field Secretary, crossed this bridge at least twice a year to inspect the new highway from coast-to-coast, driving an average of 15,000 miles per year.