The evolution of West Chicago, from a small railroad hub known as Junction to a thriving industrial suburb, reflects the town’s strategic decisions and adaptive spirit. Influenced by prominent individuals, industrial ambitions, and a desire to project a modern image, West Chicago’s name changes chart its growth and transformation over the decades.
The Birth of a Railroad Town
West Chicago’s origins are rooted in the arrival of the Galena & Chicago Union Railroad (G&CU) in 1849. As Chicago’s first railroad, the G&CU aimed to connect Chicago with Galena, a center of lead mining. The decision to establish a junction point in what is now West Chicago set the stage for a growing settlement:
The junction became a transportation hub, with branch lines connecting to the G&CU’s main line. The meeting train lines would later become the Chicago & Northwestern (now the Union Pacific) and the Burlington Route (now BNSF), some of the biggest railroads in the World.
Supporting facilities, including repair shops, water and fuel depots, an eating house, and a hotel, created jobs and drew settlers to the area.
The settlement, aptly named Junction, quickly established itself as a key player in the region’s railroad network.
1874 Map of Winfield Township showing the many early rail lines in and out of Turner
From Junction to Turner Junction
Influential figures shaped the town’s early identity: John B. Turner, president of the G&CU, and Dr. Joseph & Mary McConnell, local landowners.
In 1855, Turner platted the first section of the town, naming it the Town of Junction. His railroad connections inspired street names like Chicago, Fulton, and Galena, and Depot Street highlighted the importance of the railroad depot.
In 1857, Dr. McConnell and his wife Mary platted the northern section, naming it the Town of Turner in honor of Turner’s contributions to the community.
The dual plats—Town of Junction and Town of Turner—led to the combined early nickname Turner Junction, which reflected the growing unity of the settlement.
Incorporation and Identity: The Village of Turner
By the 1860s, Turner Junction had matured into a more permanent community, with a large Chicago & North Western (C&NW) depot, a roundhouse, and several churches. In 1873, the town formally incorporated as the Village of Turner, cementing the name introduced by Dr. McConnell.
A Strategic Name Change: Becoming West Chicago
The late 19th century brought new opportunities with the arrival of the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway (EJ&E) in 1888. Known as the Outer Belt Line, the EJ&E offered free factory sites along its route, attracting industries and sparking economic growth.
To further enhance the town’s appeal to businesses, the community took a bold step: changing its name to West Chicago in 1896. The new name had clear advantages:
Geographic Appeal: “West Chicago” clearly located the town in relation to Chicago, making it more attractive to prospective industries.
Metropolitan Image: The name evoked progress, modernity, and industrial potential, aligning with the town’s aspirations to become a manufacturing hub.
The name change marked a shift in identity, positioning the town for growth and signaling its readiness to embrace a more ambitious future.
1896 Bike Race to celebrate the community’s name change to West Chicago
From Village to City
The renaming of West Chicago coincided with efforts to modernize and improve the community:
In 1896, the establishment of a public waterworks addressed critical infrastructure needs, enhancing fire protection and supporting industrial growth.
Continued expansion of industries and population growth eventually led to West Chicago’s incorporation as a City in 1906.
West Chicago Water Works and Tower 1911
A Town Shaped by Its Name
The journey from Junction to West Chicago highlights the power of a name in shaping a community’s identity and future. What began as a modest railroad settlement transformed into a forward-looking industrial suburb, adopting a name that projected ambition and opportunity.
Today, West Chicago stands as a testament to the strategic decisions and resilience of its residents, honoring its railroad roots while embracing its evolution as a modern community. Visit the museum to explore the stories behind the town’s transformation and the pivotal moments that shaped its path.