Picture a lush prairie. Imagine settlers arriving in the 1830s. This is Palatine Township. They followed Native American trails. These trails became Algonquin Road and Rand Road. Palatine’s story begins here.
Palatine Township’s early pioneers built homes in groves. These were Deer Grove Plum Grove Englishman’s Grove and Highland Grove. George Ela was the first European settler. He built a log cabin in Deer Grove in 1835. The Illinois and Wisconsin Railroad arrived in 1853. This railroad later became the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. It’s unique. It’s a left-handed railroad. This is likely because its first engines came from England.
Joel Wood played a pivotal role. He surveyed and laid out the Village of Palatine in 1855. The Village incorporated in 1866. Streetlights arrived in 1871. Twelve lamps cost $3 each. A lamplighter earned 50 cents a night. Palatine residents are proud of their history.
The George Clayson House stands as a testament. Built in 1873 it’s on the National Register of Historic Places. The Clayson House Museum is incredible. It holds over 1000 artifacts. These artifacts tell the story of Palatine’s early days.
Palatine Township wasn’t just about homes. It was a farming community. Hundreds of farms existed. Farmers worked the land. George Ela was the first farmer. Harold Bergman was the last. He retired in 2017 at 100 years old. His farm became Bergman Pointe a subdivision.
Many farms had colorful names. Atlasta Farms was a poultry farm. Deer Grove Park Turkey Farm sold turkeys. Elm Tree Farm was owned by the Nesset family. Tri-Color Farm was owned by George Jayne. This farm was significant. It had an indoor arena 50 stalls on each side and an outdoor riding arena. It was even the training grounds for some of Bob Galvin’s children. Sadly George Jayne was murdered. His brother Silas was convicted. Marion Jayne George’s wife became a renowned pilot.
Palatine Township’s history is rich with stories. From its humble beginnings as a prairie settlement to its growth it has a captivating past. Explore Palatine Township and discover the stories for yourself. You’ll appreciate Palatine’s enduring legacy.