Gurnee

Founding and Early History

The history of Gurnee dates back to the 1830s, when the first settlers from New York State arrived in the area, crossing the Des Plaines River. The small community was originally known as "Wentworth's Ford," and later simply as Wentworth. A major milestone was the opening of the railway station in 1874.

The settlement was named "Gurnee" in honor of Walter S. Gurnee, who served as the Mayor of Chicago and was one of the directors of the railroad that helped develop the region. Gurnee officially achieved village status much later, being incorporated in 1928.

Key Factors in Its Development

Gurnee's growth was driven by a successful combination of geographical location and transport infrastructure:

• Geography: Its location at a ford across the Des Plaines River made it a natural stopping point for travelers.
• Transportation: The construction of the railway line connecting Chicago and Milwaukee served as a catalyst for growth, transforming a quiet farming community into an important transportation hub.
• Intercity Connection: Situated roughly halfway between two major metropolises, Gurnee historically served as a convenient point for rest and trade.

Early Cultural and Economic Characteristics

In its early days, Gurnee was primarily an agricultural settlement. Local residents engaged in farming, providing produce for neighboring cities. The social heart of the community was "Mother Rudd's" tavern, built in 1844. This building, which survives to this day, functioned as a stagecoach inn, post station, and meeting place, playing a key role in shaping the local identity.

Chronology of Gurnee's Development

The city's history is a journey from a small river crossing to a major Midwest center for entertainment and retail.

• 1835 — The first settlers from New York State arrive at the ford across the Des Plaines River.
• 1844 — Construction of the Mother Rudd tavern, which became an important stagecoach stop and post station.
• 1874 — The railway station is named Gurnee in honor of Walter S. Gurnee, the former Mayor of Chicago.
• 1928 — Gurnee is officially incorporated and receives village status.
• 1958 — Opening of a section of the Tri-State Tollway (I-94), providing a direct link to Chicago and Milwaukee.
• 1976 — Opening of the Marriott's Great America theme park (now Six Flags Great America), defining the city's future in tourism.
• 1991 — Launch of the Gurnee Mills shopping center, becoming one of the largest malls in Illinois.
• 2008 — Opening of the Key Lime Cove water park resort, expanding options for family vacations.
• 2018 — Renovation and reopening of the former resort as Great Wolf Lodge, solidifying Gurnee's status as an entertainment hub.

Stages of the City’s Transformation

The development of Gurnee is an example of how a prime location and bold investment projects can turn a small community into a regional tourism magnet. Several key milestones have defined the city's modern character:

• Construction of the Tri-State Tollway (I-94).

  The completion of the high-speed highway in the late 1950s laid the foundation for future growth. This event brought Gurnee out of isolation, providing a quick connection to both Chicago and Milwaukee. Accessibility for motorists made the town attractive for new residents and future businesses alike.

• Opening of Marriott's Great America (1976).

  The launch of the theme park (now known as Six Flags Great America) fundamentally changed the city's economy. Gurnee evolved from a simple "bedroom" suburb into the Midwest's premier destination for family vacations. This provided a massive boost to the service and hospitality industries.

• Launch of Gurnee Mills Shopping Center (1991).

  The opening of one of the state's largest malls solidified the city's status as a commercial hub. This event attracted millions of "shopping tourists," created thousands of jobs, and provided a stable tax base, allowing the city to maintain high standards of public amenities without a municipal property tax.

• Development of Year-Round Tourism (2000s–2010s).

  The arrival of indoor water parks and resort complexes, such as Great Wolf Lodge (formerly Key Lime Cove), allowed the city to host guests year-round, reducing dependence on the seasonal nature of the outdoor theme park. This strengthened Gurnee's reputation as a destination for full weekend getaways.

• Infrastructure and Safety Modernization.

  In response to the influx of millions of tourists, city authorities significantly overhauled urban planning policies. Roads were widened to combat congestion, emergency services were bolstered, and a comfortable environment was created where the interests of local residents are balanced with the needs of visitors.

Architectural Style and Urban Development

The architecture of Gurnee does not boast ancient cathedrals or palaces in Baroque or Renaissance styles. Instead, it is a classic example of an American town whose appearance was shaped by 20th-century car culture and rapid suburbanization. The city's urban fabric is clearly zoned: quiet residential neighborhoods are separated from bustling entertainment and commercial districts.

Historical Heritage: The 19th Century

Little remains from the settlement's early period. Most of what has survived are examples of simple, functional architecture characteristic of the first Midwest settlers.

• Federal Style and Vernacular Architecture: A prominent example is the Mother Rudd House, built in 1844. This stone building, which originally served as a tavern and post station, features the clean lines and practicality typical of buildings from that era. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Lake County.

The Era of Suburbanization: Mid-20th Century

Following the construction of the I-94 highway in the late 1950s, Gurnee began to develop rapidly as a residential suburb of Chicago. Much of the city's primary housing stock was established during this period.

• American Ranch and Split-level Styles: The city's residential areas abound with single-story and multi-level homes that were popular in the U.S. during the 1960s and 1970s. These styles are characterized by low-pitched roofs, wide facades, and a focus on convenience for families with cars.

Commercial and Entertainment Architecture: Late 20th — Early 21st Century

Gurnee's modern look is defined by large-scale commercial projects that have turned the city into a tourism hub. Here, functionalism and thematic architecture prevail.

• Thematic Architecture: Six Flags Great America park is an eclectic mix of stylized zones—ranging from the early 20th-century "Hometown Square" to the futuristic designs of modern thrill rides.
• Commercial Postmodernism: The Gurnee Mills shopping center (opened in 1991) is an example of "big-box" architecture, where the utilitarian form of a massive building (with a Z-shaped floor plan) is combined with vibrant interior design and enormous parking spaces typical of late-century American retail.

Urban Planning Features

Gurnee’s layout has a distinctly car-centric character:

• Thoroughfare Development: The city is bisected by the I-94 highway, and most commercial activity is concentrated along Grand Avenue.
• Zoning: Large entertainment clusters (water parks, malls, attractions) are located in separate zones with convenient highway exits to minimize traffic in residential neighborhoods.

Historical Figures and Founders

• Walter S. Gurnee — Politician, businessman, and city namesake

  Although Walter Gurnee spent most of his life in Chicago and New York, his influence on the city was foundational. As the 14th Mayor of Chicago (1851–1853) and a railroad director, he facilitated the construction of a station in the area. In gratitude for the development of the transport infrastructure, local residents named the station, and later the settlement, in his honor.

• Wealthy "Mother" Rudd — Abolitionist and the county's first female tavern keeper

  A key figure in the city's early history. In 1844, she opened an inn that became the center of the settlement's social life. Historians believe her home served as a station on the "Underground Railroad," providing shelter for those seeking freedom. Today, the Mother Rudd House serves as a museum and the headquarters of the local historical society.

Heroes and Public Figures

• Allen James Lynch — Veteran and Medal of Honor recipient

  A Gurnee resident who was awarded the U.S. military's highest decoration—the Medal of Honor—for heroism displayed during his service. Risking his life, he rescued three wounded comrades under enemy fire. Lynch is a respected member of the community and remains active in veteran affairs.

Arts and Media

• Kevin Anderson — Stage and screen actor

  A Gurnee native and graduate of Warren Township High School. Anderson achieved international recognition as a member of the renowned Steppenwolf Theatre Company. He is well-known to the general public for his role in the film "Sleeping with the Enemy," where he starred alongside Julia Roberts, as well as for his work in the series "Nothing Sacred," for which he received a Golden Globe nomination.

• Tim Weigel — Sports broadcaster and journalist

  A well-known Chicago broadcaster who lived in Gurnee for many years. His unique reporting style and charisma made him one of the most recognizable figures in Midwest sports journalism in the late 20th century.

Athletes

• Robbie Gould — NFL Football Player

  The legendary kicker for the Chicago Bears, who resided in Gurnee for a long time during his tenure with the team. Gould became the all-time leading scorer in franchise history and was actively involved in the city's charitable life.

• Brandon Paul — Professional basketball player

  Raised in Gurnee, he became a high school basketball star at Warren Township High School, earning the title of "Mr. Basketball of Illinois" in 2009. He went on to a successful career at the University of Illinois and later played in the NBA (San Antonio Spurs) and various European leagues.