In Erik Larson's "The Devil in the White City," the author highlights a grim chapter in urban history when a water contamination crisis in 1885 led to a severe cholera and typhoid outbreak. The incident was devastating, resulting in the loss of ten percent of the city's population, which left a lasting impact on the community's collective memory and awareness of public health issues.

This historical reference serves as a stark reminder of the importance of clean water and effective sanitation systems, as the consequences of neglecting these essential services were tragically felt. The book explores how these health crises intersected with the ambitions of a growing city, foreshadowing the challenges that come with rapid urbanization.