Village Of Wood Dale

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Nestled in the heart of DuPage County, Illinois, the Village of Wood Dale stands as a testament to Midwestern resilience and community spirit. With a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, this vibrant suburban community has transformed from a small settlement to a thriving municipality that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern urban living.

Origins and Early Settlement

The story of Wood Dale begins with the Winnebago tribe, who originally used the area as hunting grounds. After the tribe ceded the land following Illinois’ statehood in 1818, early settlers like Hezekiah Dunklee and Edward Lester began to establish roots in what was then known as Dunklee’s Grove. In 1835, the Lester family arrived and played a crucial role in the area’s development, with Julia Lester even requesting the first school building near the present-day water treatment plant.

Agricultural and Railroad Roots

Prior to the Civil War, German immigrants significantly influenced the region’s growth. They established a vibrant bilingual community, creating merchants, professionals, and building essential infrastructure like churches, schools, and businesses. The arrival of the Chicago and Pacific Railroad in 1873, largely due to Frederick Lester’s efforts, marked a turning point for the settlement. The first local industry, a cheese factory constructed by Lester and Frederick Heuer, signaled the area’s economic potential.

Incorporation and Growth

By 1899, the area’s train station was renamed Wooddale, reflecting the community’s evolving identity. In 1928, the Village of Wood Dale was officially incorporated. The population remained relatively stable until the 1960s, when it experienced significant growth—expanding from 3,071 residents in 1960 to over 11,000 by 1980.

Modern Wood Dale

Today, Wood Dale is a dynamic community of approximately 14,000 residents. The city boasts impressive demographics and economic characteristics:

• Population Composition: 66.07% White, 5.79% other races, 5.11% Asian, 3.01% Black or African American
• Median Household Income: $91,382
• Poverty Rate: 6.7%
• Median Age: 42.3 years

Community and Infrastructure

Wood Dale prides itself on maintaining a council-manager form of government. The city is strategically located near O’Hare Airport and offers excellent transportation options, including Metra Rail connections to Chicago and Elgin. Surrounded by three golf courses and numerous forest preserves, the village offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.

🏡 Note: Wood Dale continues to evolve, focusing on economic growth, community development, and maintaining its unique small-town charm while embracing modern urban amenities.

From its humble beginnings as a Native American hunting ground to a thriving suburban community, the Village of Wood Dale represents the quintessential American story of growth, diversity, and resilience.