News

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 from its earliest days to the community we know today. Through photographs and historical records, the book offers readers a look at the people, places, and events that have shaped Downers Grove across generations. Publications like this help preserve local stories and spark renewed interest

Forging a Future in Downers Grove Plans are heating up for FoundersFest2026.  This week-long series of events will highlight Downers Grove’s history with many family-friendly events that mix learning and fun.  It will kick off on April 25th with the annual Pine-Hollow Open Golf Tournament at the historic Belmont Golf Club, and will wrap up May 2nd with a host of special events celebrating the pioneers who built Downers Grove.  Early settler and blacksmith Nathan

When Nathan Belden, a blacksmith and farrier from New York, and his wife Fannie headed west in 1844 to reunite with friends and settle in Cherry Valley, Illinois, he never anticipated running into Pierce Downer during a brief stop along the way.   Nathan’s future was in Cherry Valley, or so he thought.  But Pierce’s horse needed a new shoe, and suddenly Nathan’s future was recast.   Nathan Alonzo Belden stayed in Downers Grove, bringing

Interest in researching and preserving Downers Grove’s historic homes continues to grow! In 2025, thirteen homes were approved for Historic Home status – the most ever approved in one year. Congratulations to all who chose to help preserve our community’s history! Read more about these historic homes here Approved in the last quarter of 2025 were the following Historic Homes: The Leuschner House at 4425 Wilson Avenue, is the second HHP house on the west side of