The History of Long Grove Illinois
Our local Historical Society has put together some interesting
and informative historic information and photos about Long Grove.


Long Grove Village Hall
THE LONG GROVE VILLAGE HALL

The Crossroads area in Long Grove was first settled in the 1830's. Farmers & craftsmen from Alsace - Lorraine, seeking freedom and prosperity, made the arduous trek across the Atlantic to America, the "Land of Opportunity".

When the Erie Canal opened in 1825, many journeyed further west with their families as the Great Lakes offered easier and quicker passage to where they could purchase available land.

The sought-after priorities were: good farmland, good water, abundance of woodlands, and trailways to other nearby communities. Long Grove (which was, at that time, named Muttersholz, after their former European home), supplied all they had hoped for. The farmland was rich and flat and relatively free of boulders; well water was easily obtained, the long grove of oak, hickory, and other hardwood trees, gave them good building materials and plentiful fuel. Then too, the trails already developed by Native Americans, provided them easy access to Chicago, Wisconsin, Lake Michigan and other points; good for both commerce and congeniality.


 Today, buildings in the crossroad area are marked with plaques identifying the original owners and their occupations. Granted, the blacksmiths, grist mills, and dairies no longer operate, but their structures house a myriad of intriguing shops to visit. The 1840's Long Grove Church has continued to have regular services since its dedication.

Via the covered bridge, you can wander through a bit of early America with its one room school, early taverns, and general and specialty stores for a great variety of furnishings, memorabilia, clothing and food.
Long Grove's Ruth Barn
The Ruth Barn (circa 1850) and the current Historical Society Herb Garden

Long Grove Historical Society Farmhouse
Path near Archer Schoolhouse
Near the Archer One Room School House

  Long Grove Community Church

The Long Grove Community Church was the first structure erected in Long Grove by the German settlers and has held services there since 1847.

In addition to still serving its contemporary congregation, it's in great demand as a wedding site. Newlyweds emerge most every weekend and proceed to the Village for wonderful photos and receptions.

Easy parking and a friendly atmosphere make
spending time in Long Grove a day to remember.

SITE MAP
   
WELCOME TO LONG GROVE OUR FESTIVALS & EVENTS AREA ATTRACTIONS
   
THE SHOPS OF LONG GROVE LONG GROVE HISTORY MERCHANTS DIRECTORY
   
VILLAGE MAP OF SHOPS MAP AND DIRECTIONS E-MAIL US FOR INFO
RETURN TO MAIN PAGE



 2001 - 2008
Long Grove Business & Community Partners. All Rights Reserved.