Westmont

Before it was incorporated, the land that became Westmont was open prairie dotted with broad stretches of farmland. Over the following century the village developed a reputation for its small-town warmth and tight-knit residents. Its story intersects with several wider episodes, including the Great Chicago Fire, Prohibition, the rise of Chicago blues through one of its most influential figures, and the worldwide Beanie Babies craze.

Westmont's civic life has always depended on neighbors pitching in. It began with an all-volunteer fire department, and the community has kept that spirit alive, earning a standing as home to some of the finest volunteer-run events in the Chicago area. Throughout, the town has shown a strong commitment to looking after its people and recognizing what they achieve.