Country Club Hills

What would possess someone to haul stone blocks with a team of 24 mules? That’s exactly what the early German settlers of Country Club Hills did back in 1872. They weren’t building just any structure, but a testament to their faith: St. John’s Lutheran Church and School. Imagine those massive stone blocks, hauled all the way from a quarry in Joliet, a journey of several days over rough terrain. These blocks were so heavy that wheeled vehicles were useless. The settlers used log rollers to move these behemoths, and with sheer manpower and determination, they raised the entire building using only ropes and pulleys. Country Club Hills wasn’t always a bustling suburb. It began as a tight-knit farming community known as Cooper’s Grove. These German farmers laid the foundation for what would become a city known for its strong sense of community and volunteerism. This spirit of togetherness was evident in their ambitious construction projects, like the church and, later, the Civic Center and Library. The year 1955 marked a turning point. Developer J.E. Merrion envisioned a different future for the area – spacious and affordable homes with a country-like atmosphere. This vision attracted new families, and by 1958, Country Club Hills officially became a city. The spirit of the early settlers, their dedication to community and faith, still resonates throughout Country Club Hills. Their story is a reminder that even the most ambitious endeavors are achievable with shared purpose and a commitment to working together.