The Chicago Northwest suburbs are a tapestry of communities, each with its own unique history and character. Let's delve into the rich pasts of Arlington Heights, Elk Grove Village, Itasca, Rolling Meadows, Roselle, Streamwood, Schaumburg, and Wood Dale.
Arlington Heights
Founded in the mid-1800s by Asa Dunton, a Yankee stonecutter, Arlington Heights began as a modest farming community known as the "Town of Dunton." Asa's son, William Dunton, was the first homeowner in the area. The arrival of the railroad in 1854 spurred growth, and by 1874, the village adopted the name Arlington Heights. Today, it boasts attractions like the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre and a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants.
Source: Village of Arlington Heights
Elk Grove Village
Named for the native elk that once roamed its forests and grasslands, Elk Grove Village was initially settled in 1834 by pioneer New England farmers. By 1848, German immigrant farmers established a thriving community. The area's transformation accelerated during World War II when Douglas Aircraft built a military transport manufacturing plant nearby. Post-war, this facility and its surrounding land evolved into what is now O'Hare International Airport, propelling Elk Grove Village into a center of commerce. The five-square-mile Elk Grove Village Business Park has become the second-largest employment center in Illinois, drawing approximately 100,000 daily commuters.
Source: Village of Elk Grove
Itasca
The completion of the Chicago and Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century was pivotal for Itasca, with stations established in Bensenville, Wood Dale (then called Lester), and Itasca. Local resident Elijah Smith facilitated the railroad's passage through the area by providing land and financial support for a station. This development led to Itasca's incorporation as a village in 1890. The Itasca Depot Museum, one of the last intact original train depots on the Chicago and Milwaukee Railroad District Line, offers visitors a glimpse into the village's past.
Source: Village of Itasca
Images: Courtesy of the Itasca Community Library
Rolling Meadows
Incorporated in 1955, Rolling Meadows was developed by Kimball Hill, who constructed affordable housing for post-World War II veterans and Chicagoans seeking a suburban lifestyle. The city has since matured into a diverse community, rich in cultural and economic backgrounds. The Rolling Meadows Historical Museum, designed as a replica of the first ranch-style homes built by Hill in 1953, showcases the city's mid-20th-century origins.
Source: City of Rolling Meadows
Roselle
The first settlers, including Silas L. Meacham and his brothers, arrived in the area on March 11, 1833. They claimed about 1,200 acres of timberland, laying the foundation for what would become Roselle. Roselle was named after Rosell Hough, a prominent figure who also contributed to the village's early development. The arrival of the Milwaukee Road Railroad enhanced its accessibility, fostering growth. Today, Roselle is known for its community events and as the home of Lynfred Winery, Illinois' oldest and largest continuously operating winery.
Source: Village of Roselle
Schaumburg
The Village of Schaumburg was incorporated in the 1950s, but the Village's heritage dates back to the much earlier times when the first inhabitants of the area were members of the Sauk, Fox, Pottawatomie, and Kickapoo Indian tribes. By 1870, Schaumburg Township had become completely German. Land records show that all the property in the Township was owned by German immigrants or their descendants. Schaumburg's evolution from a rural community to a suburban city began with significant developments like Alfred Campanelli's large-scale housing projects in 1959 and the opening of Woodfield Mall in 1971. These milestones marked the village's transformation into a major commercial and residential hub in the region.
Source: Village of Schaumburg
Images: Courtesy of the Schaumburg Township District Library
Streamwood
Incorporated on February 9, 1957, Streamwood transformed from farmland intersected by Schaumburg, Bartlett, and Oltendorf Roads into a thriving suburban community. Streamwood's history is rooted in its development as a residential community in the mid-20th century. Originally part of the township of Hanover, Streamwood experienced significant growth during the suburban expansion following World War II. The village has since evolved into a diverse community with a strong emphasis on parks and recreation.
Source: Village of Streamwood
Wood Dale
The Village of Wood Dale was incorporated in the 1928, and later officially became the City of Wood Dale in 1971. However, the City’s heritage dates back to when it was first inhabited by the Winnebago tribe, part of the Sioux nation.Wood Dale experienced gradual growth through World War II. Beginning in the 1960s, the population expanded significantly, growing from 3,071 in 1960 to over 11,000 by 1980. Today, Wood Dale is recognized for its strong commercial and industrial section of the city, which allows the city to provide wonderful programs and services to its residents.
Source: City of Wood Dale
Each of these communities contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of the Chicago Northwest suburbs, blending historical significance with modern development to create vibrant places to live, work, and visit. Our region is filled with things to do!