Chicago is almost 200 years old and much has happened since the time of its birth. These 12 vintage photos will take you right back to the past. Some parts of the city have completely transformed since these shots were taken, while other areas seem like they haven't changed a bit. You won't find these photos in your history books, so keep scrolling for a little peek into what Chicago looked like over a century ago.

1. Once one of the most prominent and historical buildings in downtown, Grand Union Station was a railroad terminal from 1890 to 1969.

This is a shot of the building in 1963 before it was demolished in 1971. Today, you'll find condos and and various business buildings in its place.

2. To replace the old one, this new Union Station was built right on the river and is still standing and in use today.

This image was taken just before the station began serving travellers in 1925.

3. This famous image was taken in 1915 as Franklin Roosevelt cruised past Union Station down the brick streets of Chicago.

The streets look very different today, as do the people crowding them!

4. This castle-like structure once housed the Chicago Historical Society, but is now known as a nightclub called Excalibur.

This photo was taken in 1963, but the historical landmark was built in 1892.

5. This is a shot of Chicago Cubs right fielder Max Flack in 1920.

He played for the Cubs for seven years before moving to the St. Louis Cardinals, so he's kind of a traitor. Regardless, it's still the same Wrigley Field everyone knows and loves, just with different players (and different outfits) these days.

6. The Paris Brothel, photographed here in 1911, was a saloon in the Levee, Chicago's red-light district during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The original owner was accused of operating a white slavery ring and was shut down.

7. Just outside the Chicago Theatre, looking south, this famous shot captured by Stanley Kubrick in 1949 was featured on the cover of Look magazine.

The street looks about the same today, but the cars are definitely much different.

8. This photo of the Chicago Federal Building was shot in 1910, five years after construction was completed.

It was located in the Loop at Dearborn and Adams, but has since been replaced by the Kluczynski Federal Building.

9. Taken in 1921, this is a picture of West Arthur Avenue in Rogers Park.

Though these streets are still lined with houses, there are a mix of apartments, condos, and duplexes sprinkled in nowadays.

10. The Harper Memorial Library on the campus of the University of Chicago is a grandiose structure that has been around for over a century.

This photo was taken in 1920, and though somewhat grainy, you can see the intricate Gothic details of the architecture.

11. This amazing photo shows what life looked like in color in downtown Chicago in the early 1900s. It depicts the corner of Dearborn and Randolph streets, which is still one of the busiest intersections in the city.

We just don't have horses and electric trolleys anymore!

12. This is the original Ferris Wheel, which premiered at the 1893 World Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

The one at Navy Pier is a replica of this first model, but if you want to see it, you better stop by fast. Plans for a remodel are set for the very near future.

Which of these old photos surprised you the most? There are definitely a few places that haven't changed much over the decades, but it's amazing to see how different many of these locations look today! Do you have any old photos of the city? Share your blasts from the past with us in the comments below, or on the Only In Chicago Facebook page or Instagram (@onlyinchicago) using #onlyinchicago!

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