How about a trip back in time to 1835? That’s when the story of Berkeley, Illinois, begins. It’s a tale of farmers, railroads, and a village determined to maintain its small-town charm. Berkeley is located just 14 miles west of downtown Chicago.
Initially, German and Dutch farmers settled here. They cultivated the land. In 1848 these families established the Sunnyside one-room schoolhouse. Fast forward to 1924. Berkeley officially became a village. English residents played a key role in its incorporation.
The arrival of the Chicago, Aurora & Elgin Railroad in 1902 was a game changer. It brought passenger rail service to Berkeley for the first time. Subdivisions emerged. New homes were built. Berkeley began to grow.
After World War II, Berkeley experienced a population boom. The village tripled in size between 1950 and 1960. However, progress came at a cost. The construction of Interstate 290 in the late 1950s cut through Berkeley. Many homes were lost.
Interestingly, Berkeley once considered changing its name to Waldo. In 1926 they briefly considered that. The village ultimately decided to keep the name Berkeley but added an extra “e”.
Today, Berkeley retains its residential character. Many families who moved here in the 1950s stayed for decades. The village has a diverse population. It has strong community bonds.
St. Charles Road is Berkeley’s main street. It runs through the heart of town. The Illinois Prairie Path is popular. Hiking and biking enthusiasts enjoy it.
Did you know that Berkeley is home to World Dryer Corporation? Since 1950, this company has been a global leader in hand dryer manufacturing. Their products are used in public restrooms around the world.
Berkeley also has a sister city. It is Berkeley, Gloucestershire, in England. This connection highlights the village’s global awareness.
In 2024, Berkeley celebrated its centennial. It marked 100 years since its incorporation. The village has a rich history. It has a resilient spirit.
Berkeley is a testament to small-town life. It balances accessibility and a distinct identity. The transportation corridors may separate it. Yet they also connect it to the wider world. Berkeley is a place where history and community intertwine.