INTRODUCTION

This popularly written history has been deemed particularly to interest the young people of DuPage County. Highlighting the strategically located towns and villages that grew and prospered because of the railroads that brought communication, fast transportation and commerce across the county, the story line captivates readers of all ages. It concentrates upon selected leaders from these communities.

Too frequently little attention is given to acquainting our young people with their heritage in the locality in which they are growing up. Because of the richness of this heritage in DuPage County, it is not difficult to pinpoint colorful and creative people who made lasting impact upon their towns, their county and even our nation. Some of those for whom vignettes have been word painted are of such stature that their work and contributions to society are internationally known. They are all presented as the kind of people who could have lived next door, yet were real life heroes in their day and time. This publication outreach to young people is the first of an anticipated series that extends the purposes of the DuPage Heritage Gallery. It is a gallant effort to put feet to the words of Governor James Thompson who at the dedication of the Gallery stated:

The DuPage Heritage Gallery is one of the first efforts of its kind in Illinois, and I think in the nation. Our nation’s communities have not generally sought new meanings in their own history as you are doing here.You have brought your heroes to life. You are making it possible for these important people to come alive so that young people can know about them.

To my way of thinking, this volume does just that with a quick succession of the stories of two dozen notable people and a host of retellable events. You’ll like it.