West Chicago’s Town Hall, built in 1884, served as a cornerstone of civic life for over 90 years. From its construction during the village's early growth as Turner to its transformation into the City of West Chicago Historical Museum in 1976, the building reflects the community’s evolving needs and its commitment to preserving local history.
From "Rookery" to Civic Landmark
By the 1880s, the growing Village of Turner required a dedicated space for local governance. Under the leadership of John Norris, a building contractor and village president in 1884, plans for the Town Hall were set into motion. Construction began in June, with the project costing approximately $6,000, the equivalent of $193,000 today.
The three-story structure was designed to serve multiple purposes:
The first floor housed fire-fighting equipment, accessible through a wide door and ramp.
The police department, consisting of a single officer, operated from the building. A jail was constructed in the basement with cage like cells.
The village council chambers occupied additional space on the second floor.
This multi-functional design reflected the town’s resourceful approach to meeting civic needs. On May 19, 1885, the village council held its first meeting in the new Town Hall, though the interior was not yet finished. The unfinished state led some to nickname the building a “rookery,” but by 1886, the interior work was complete, and the building became fully operational.
The Town Hall marked a major milestone for West Chicago’s fire department. In 1887, it housed the town’s first four-wheeled hook and ladder truck, and by 1896, the West Chicago Hose Company No. 1 and Hook and Ladder Company were officially organized.
West Chicago Fire Department in front of Turner Town Hall (now the City Museum) 1908
A Hub for Community Life
While the Town Hall fulfilled its civic duties, it also played a larger role as a community gathering place. Located on Main Street, the heart of West Chicago’s business district, the building was a natural focal point for social events.
Though the sources don’t detail all the activities held in the space, the second floor hosted public gatherings such as dances, lectures, and meetings, underscoring the Town Hall’s importance as a hub for both governance and community life.
City Hall as it appeared in 1960
Outgrowing Its Role
As West Chicago grew throughout the 20th century, the Town Hall, now referred to as City Hall, struggled to keep pace with the town’s expanding needs.
In the 1960s, the formation of a separate Fire District led to the construction of a new fire station in 1969, relocating the fire department.
The police department moved to McConnell Street, leaving the City Hall to house administrative offices and council meetings.
By the early 1970s, the aging City Hall could no longer meet the demands of a modern municipal government. Under Mayor Richard Truitt, the city purchased and renovated a former Jewel Food Store on Main Street in 1975, relocating its offices and council chambers.
A New Life as the City of West Chicago Historical Museum
The move left the historic City Hall at 132 Main Street vacant but not forgotten. Recognizing its historical significance, the city repurposed the building as the City of West Chicago Historical Museum in 1976, coinciding with the nation’s bicentennial celebrations. The Museum was later renamed to the West Chicago City Museum.
The museum preserves and showcases artifacts, exhibits, and research materials that chronicle West Chicago’s history.
The decision to transform the old City Hall into a museum ensured that the building, one of two National Landmarks in West Chicago, remains a vital part of the community, connecting residents to their shared past.
A Legacy Preserved
The history of West Chicago’s Town Hall reflects the community’s growth and its ability to adapt to changing times. What began as a pragmatic multi-purpose building became a treasured historical landmark, embodying the town’s journey from a small railroad hub to a thriving suburb.
Today, the old City Hall stands as a testament to West Chicago’s commitment to honoring its past while looking to the future. Visit the West Chicago City Museum to explore the rich stories preserved within its walls and to celebrate the legacy of this enduring landmark.