News

Founders Fest 2026 was a wonderful week of events celebrating Downers Grove history and its preservation. The first event was the Pine Hollow Golf Tournament. The Downers Grove Historical Society collaborated with the Belmont Golf Club, founded in 1892. The 47th annual Pine Hollow Open featured a 9-hole stroke play event. “The Longest Drive Contest”—”In Memory of Dave Eckdahl”—was won by Melissa Eckdahl, who is the daughter of Dave Eckdahl. Tivoli was the second theater

An Exciting and Memorable Evening Celebrating History and Innovation An unforgettable evening of history, storytelling, and hometown pride unfolded at the Tivoli Theatre as the Downers Grove Historical Society welcomed an enthusiastic audience for a special celebration of the community’s past—and one of its most influential innovators. The evening opened with a lively organ performance by David Rhodes, setting the tone and reminding guests of the Tivoli’s rich tradition as a movie palace and gathering place. Guests were then

The Downers Grove Historical Society and the Downers Grove. Museum are pleased to announce the recognition of the historic home at 4926 Saratoga Avenue as part of its Historic Home Recognition Program. Built in 1891, this well-preserved residence reflects the early growth and architectural character of Downers Grove. The home was constructed for Edward and Mary Bentley on land that was part of E.H. Prince and Company’s Addition, a subdivision recorded in 1890 during a period

The Historical Society has named Nathan Alonzo Belden as the 2026 Founder of the Year. Belden will be recognized at a special ceremony at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Main Street Cemetery, where his legacy will be honored at his graveside. A chance encounter with Pierce Downer changed everything—leading blacksmith Nathan Alonzo Belden to put down roots in a young settlement and help shape the future of Downers Grove. Please join us

The Downers Grove Historical Society has named Rich Kulovany as their Historian of the Year, recognizing his long-standing commitment to historic preservation and community service. A lifelong connection to Downers Grove began when his family moved into a home his father built at Fourth Street and Florence Avenue in 1953. A 1970 graduate of Downers Grove South High School, Kulovany went on to build a career in the technology and medical software industries while remaining active in civic life. After

The Downers Grove Historic Home Program has reached an exciting milestone: 100 homes officially recognized as Centennial or Historic Homes in Downers Grove! 5306 Washington Street, The Esther M. Smart House, was the 100th house to be approved as a Historic Home in Downes Grove. Having been approved just a few minutes before, 4832 Wallbank Avenue was the 99th house to be approved. This achievement celebrates the community’s deep appreciation for its architectural heritage and the

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 the history, character, and civic spirit of Downers Grove. Spanning nearly two centuries—from pioneer days to modern times—these women were educators, reformers, artists, legislators, writers, and community builders. These seven women were recently highlighted at the February 2026 Annual Meeting of the Downers Grove Historical Society,