325 Old McHenry Road
Long Grove, IL 60047

(847) 478-1932

The Village of Long Grove

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, the name of 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.