The Day Western Springs Banned a Book
Although first published in 1934, Henry Miller’s “Tropic of Cancer” didn’t arrive in Western Springs until 1961. But, when it did, it caused quite a
What Happened to the Citizens of the Year?
In 1986, Western Springs began recognizing citizens for their volunteerism and leadership in the community. But, 25 years later, the program had run its course.
Saving a Piece of Western Springs History
In 1974, the Grand Avenue School had been completely renovated. But, just a few years later, school enrollment declined, making the building’s long-term survival very
Western Springs and the Indy 500 Race
In a town where the top speed limit is probably 35 mph, you might not expect to find a connection to the Indianapolis 500 race.
Liquor Comes to Western Springs
Western Springs had banned the sale of alcoholic beverages since 1886. But, that was to change in 2002. Since its founding in 1886, the Village
The Village Street Named “Rugeley” … and Why
After World War II, the U.S. State Department encouraged American communities to get more involved with the people of other countries. And, Western Springs stepped
The Las Vegas Fire That Touched Western Springs
On the morning of November 21, 1980, the huge Las Vegas MGM Grand Hotel caught fire. Among the 84 victims were two young men from
When Ridgewood Joined Western Springs
Built in the late 1950’s, the Ridgewood subdivision was part of unincorporated Cook County for many years. And, its 1974 annexation to Western Springs didn’t
Western Springs’ Great Railroad Station Battle
In 1971, village officials decided to replace the brick and stone railroad station that had served the town since 1890. But, it wasn’t as easy
The Day an Airplane Crashed in Springdale
In 1971, a teenage pilot and two friends decided to fly a rented plane over the western suburbs. But, the flight was to end in
The Hospital That Was Almost Built
In 1927, the Western Community Hospital Association began planning for the construction of a local hospital. But, where would it be built? If you lived
E.P. McClure … An Early Proponent of Green Space
Chances are, you’ve driven past McClure Junior High School’s athletic field numerous times. But, have you ever heard the story behind it? While a student
The Tower Chorale … Still Going Strong
In 1986, some local residents saw the need for a community chorus, similar to that found in Elmhurst and Downers Grove. And, 28 years later,
Western Springs Rotary: Making Changes for the Better
Many local residents take our village assets for granted. But, they are the result of many clubs and organizations, especially the Rotary. The next time
A Sampling of Western Springs’ Laws from 1886
When the village was first organized, the founding fathers published a 62-page booklet that described what residents could and could not do. Here are some
Western Springs’ Addresses – Then and Now
When our village was formed, almost all of the homes were located close to the railroad depot. But, as the town grew, things got more
Western Springs’ Contribution to Aviation Safety
In the early days of aviation, pilots often navigated using various landmarks. But, they could easily become lost in less familiar surroundings. Following World War
Chicago to New York – 1915 Style
Despite the lack of real highways and, in some cases, paved roads, a Western Springs resident set a nonstop driving record in his Packard automobile.
Girl Scout Cookies … 3 for a Nickel!
Last weekend Western Springs’ Girl Scouts began selling their iconic cookies. But, do you know the origin of this great American tradition? On May 5,
A Corner Filled With Village History
The building located at Lawn and Burlington dates back to 1926. And, the list of former tenants reads like a history book of Western Springs.
Remember These Old Car Washes?
Over the past fifty years, residents had several locations where they could get their cars washed. How many do you remember? If you live in
Before there was a Thomas Ford Library
In 1925, eighty-five Western Springs residents decided the town needed a free public library. So they petitioned the County to place the issue before local
Downtown Western Springs … 50+ Years Ago
Even if you’ve lived in the village all your life, you may be surprised to see some of the ways our downtown has changed. While
The Night the Water Tower Sprang a Leak
It was a quiet August evening at the historic Western Springs Water Tower. But, suddenly, a loud noise prompted the police chief to run upstairs.
How the Ridge Acres Subdivision Got Its Name
Ridge Acres is one of Western Springs’ largest neighborhoods. Yet, few know its history or the origin of its name. In 1885, Marshall Field, the
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus
As the following actual letters from 1928 will attest, the third graders at Grand Avenue School were convinced that there was a Santa. The only
The Forest Hills Subdivision You Never Knew
Residents of Western Springs’ Forest Hills subdivision are justly proud of their neighborhood. But, it was a long time coming. In 1923, George Bruckert, a
A Military Academy on Lawn Avenue?
Every day, Western Springs residents drive past the large house at 4621 Lawn. But, few know that it once housed a military school for young
What’s That Small Railroad Building on Stilts?
When Western Springs built its current railroad station in 2005, the plan was to recreate a little bit of the past. But, the architects didn’t
Former Western Springs Pastor, Billy Graham, Turns 95
On November 7, 1918, William Franklin Graham was born near Charlotte, North Carolina. And, in 1943, he became pastor of our local Baptist Church. Billy