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Belden Avenue is a short, one-block street, starting just south of the tracks, running from Curtiss Street to Maple Avenue—but its name connects to one of Downers Grove’s earliest and […]
What’s In A Name? Belden Avenue Read More »
Early Life and Education Virginia Allen Stehney was a pioneering educator, environmental advocate, and dedicated civic leader whose work left a lasting impact on Downers Grove and beyond. Born in
Virginia Allen Stehney Read More »
This March, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, which celebrates the contributions women have made to American history, culture, and society, we honor seven remarkable women whose lives helped shape
March is National Women’s History Month Read More »
A new book celebrating our community’s rich heritage is being published by a long-time local author. Greg Elisha has released Downers Grove: Past and Present, a volume that explores the village’s evolution
NEW BOOK:
“Downers Grove: Past and Present” Read More »
Jessica North MacDonald lived a long and accomplished life devoted to literature, art, and the advancement of women’s education. While she is often remembered as the sister of noted author Sterling
Jessica North MacDonald Read More »
A Life in Bloom With a name like Lilly, it seems only fitting that flowers would shape the course of her life. Born in Hinsdale, Illinois, in 1894, Lilly began
Lilly Karlson Tholin Read More »
Minnie Harriet Jones Prince was far more than the wife of prominent real estate developer Earl Prince. In her own right, she was a civic leader, organizer, educator, and advocate
Minnie Jones Prince Read More »
Alexander Bradley Burns was born in Downers Grove on October 2, 1898, in Illinois to J.M. and Mary Burns. He had just graduated from high school when the war broke
Alexander Bradley Burns Read More »
A Mother to All Mary Stewart Burns was born in 1851 in New Hampshire and devoted her life to education, civic leadership, and the well-being of children. When she died
Mary Stewart Burns Read More »
Community Leader Descended from One of the First Families to Settle Downers Grove Born in Downers Grove in 1898, Lucile Bush was a lifelong resident whose century of life reflected
