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 The
historic Village of Long Grove is located about 35 miles northwest
of Chicago, Illinois. Off the beaten path, this quaint village
is laid out around the crossroads of Old McHenry Road and Robert
Parker Coffin Road. Long Grove is known for its picturesque beauty
and a vital shopping district that features over 80 shops and
restaurants. The village features many buildings from the mid-1800s,
brick walkways, public art, fountains, and many places to stop,
sit, and enjoy the moment.
History of Long Grove
Around 1840, John Gridley settled at a minor trail crossing deep
in Long Grove, a large grove of oaks standing in a prairie along
the southern boundary of Lake County. German immigrants followed
in the mid-1840s and discovered that the open prairie had already
been claimed. As a result, they made their claims deep within
the grove. In 1847, a post office was established under the name
Muttersholz (Mother's Woods), highlighting the area's strong German
influence.
 The
first World War's influence on the culture of German-American
residents lead to a greater use of the English language and Muttersholz
became Long Grove once again. The small community remained isolated
as the area's major roads, Routes 53 and 83, bypassed the still
rural community.
In the early 1950s, area property owners formed an association
to oppose a major development plan, resulting in village regulations
that aimed to preserve the area's historic character. Sometime
after 1959 village president Robert Coffin pushed to retain the
village's antique style through ordinances prohibiting neon signs
and the development of convenience and chain stores. Any new business
construction had to feature 1880's-style facades. The village
now has very strict building ordinances to preserve its "country
atmosphere." There are no sidewalks, street lights or curbs throughout
the village's many communities.
 Long
Grove Festivals
Today, the Long Grove Business & Community Partners host
a series of free festivals that draw visitors from across the
country. The festivals feature food, entertainment, and merchant
offerings that match each festival's theme. The festival season
kicks off with The Long Grove Chocolate Festival the weekend before
Mother's Day (the first Sunday in May). The signature festival
is the Long Grove Strawberry Fest, celebrating its 25th year in
2007. The other major festival is October's Apple Festival where
the early Autumn weather and changing leaves combine to give the
village a warm and nostalgic feel. Other events include an Art
Festival (August), Greek Days (August), the Irish Days (Labor
Day), and OktoberFeast. More about Long
Grove Festivals.
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