1835
Gagetown
George Gage bought land west of the Fox River. The area became known as Gagetown, later West McHenry.
Source: Wikipedia: McHenry, Illinois
Living in McHenry, Illinois
A Fox River city about 46 miles northwest of the Chicago Loop, surrounded by lakes, moraine hills and state parks.
01 — At a Glance
A river city in lake and moraine country.
McHenry was founded in 1836 and incorporated as a village in 1872. It took its name from the county, named for Major William McHenry. The Fox River flows through the east side of the city, and the area is full of lakes, moraine hills and glacial bogs, with Moraine Hills State Park and Volo Bog nearby. The 2020 census counted 27,135 residents.
02 — History
The story of McHenry.
McHenry was once the county seat for land that now makes up two counties. A few chapters.
1851
Mill Pond
A dam on Boone Creek created Mill Pond.
Source: Wikipedia: McHenry, Illinois
1854
The railroad
George Gage helped bring the railroad to town.
Source: Wikipedia: McHenry, Illinois
1875
The Plaindealer
The first issue of the McHenry Plaindealer was published on August 4, 1875.
Source: Wikipedia: McHenry, Illinois
1880
The first bridge
McHenry’s first bridge was built at Pearl Street.
Source: Wikipedia: McHenry, Illinois
03 — Education
A tradition of learning.
Two districts serve the city of McHenry.
Boundaries follow the address. Confirm school assignment for each address with the district before you buy.
Search HomesPublic · K–8
McHenry School District 15
Five elementary schools and three middle schools.
- Elementary and middle schools across the city
Public · 9–12
McHenry Community High School District 156
Two high schools.
- McHenry High School campuses
Source: Wikipedia: McHenry, Illinois
04 — Lifestyle
Everyday life in McHenry.
McHenry’s summers run on the river, the parks and Fiesta Days.
Outdoors
Moraine Hills State Park
Hiking trails and the Stratton Lock and Dam.
Prairie Trail
Part of the Grand Illinois Trail, through the middle of the city.
Glacial Park
A conservation area preserving the area’s glacial landscape.
Community
Fiesta Days
Eleven days in July with music, a parade, a carnival, car shows and an art fair.
McHenry Outdoor Theater
A drive-in open from March to December since 1951.
Green Street
Downtown’s live entertainment venue.
Source: Wikipedia: McHenry, Illinois