Often called the "Workshop of the World", East Chicago is an exceptionally diverse and cooperative community of hard-working residents – of whom are employed by local businesses and industrial firms. The city is proud of is working-class heritage and its strong steel-industry roots. Bordered by the deep waters and picturesque shoreline of Lake Michigan, East Chicago also offers an extensive park system, highly developed sports facilities, and a community center with a performance stage. The city is one of the first truly industrial centers in Northwest Indiana and was originally called the Twin City. Creating a microcosm of Chicago or New York City, the community has evolved from a melting pot where four out of five residents were foreign born. One of the most famous remnants of the past is the Marktown Historic District, a 1917 enclave of elegant Tudor Revival homes with English Garden City styling. Scenic marinas, public launch ramps, fishing piers and popular "floating casinos" add water-oriented recreation.