Chicago’s Newest Tourist Attraction: The ‘Rat Hole’
While Chicago boasts iconic attractions like the Bean at Millennium Park and Navy Pier, a new spectacle is captivating sightseers in a residential neighborhood miles away from the Loop. Welcome to the intriguing world of the Chicago Rat Hole.
A Social Media Sensation
What started as a decades-old curiosity on West Roscoe Street has become a viral sensation this week, thanks to Chicago artist Winslow Dumaine. His photo of the rodent-shaped imprint in the concrete, posted on social media platform X, has garnered over 5 million views, turning the Chicago Rat Hole into a must-see destination.
Visual Storytelling at its Finest
Dumaine, describing the experience, said, “It’s like a very viscerally silly thing to see.” The image, with its humorous and relatable nature, transcends language barriers, becoming a symbol that resonates across time and cultures.
The Discovery
Dumaine, who moved to Chicago in 2017, stumbled upon the rat hole last week following a friend’s suggestion. Despite not knowing what to expect, the moment he laid eyes on it, he couldn’t help but burst into laughter. The imprint, a perfect example of visual storytelling, instantly became a viral sensation.
The Neighborhood’s Marvel
Residents, like Cindy Nelson, who has lived in the neighborhood since 1997, recall the imprint’s presence since then. Celebrating the sudden popularity, Nelson shared, “We’re fond of the little critter. We never thought people would think it’s this exciting.”
Decades-Old Imperfection
The story behind the imprint involves a once towering oak tree, believed to be the culprit behind the rat hole. Over the years, the tree was cut down, leaving passersby puzzled as they looked up to find nothing but sky. The Chicago Rat Hole now stands as a cheeky, decades-old imperfection embodying the spirit of the city.
Symbol of Resilience
Dumaine sees the Chicago Rat Hole as more than just a picture of a splat mark. It represents the resilience of Chicagoans, comparing it to the city’s harsh climate. “That rat fell in that cement, brushed himself off and went to work,” he added.
Spreading Joy through Small Moments
Posting the photo as an opportunity for others to share the joy, Dumaine, known for his grim and dark art, emphasizes his optimistic outlook. “It is a very, very small thing — it’s just a picture of a splat mark — but it’s also part of a greater philosophy of just like, let’s make as many people smile as we can,” he said.
