frankfort

Located in the heart of Will County, approximately 30 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, Frankfort, Illinois is a thriving suburban community that blends a rich historical heritage with modern-day amenities. Known for its charming downtown area, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere, Frankfort has become one of the most sought-after places to live in the southwestern suburbs of Chicago.

Early History and Settlement

Frankfort's roots stretch back to the early 19th century, long before it became the growing suburban town it is today. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Potawatomi, who lived along the nearby rivers and forests.

The town of Frankfort was officially founded in 1834 when settlers began arriving in the region. The community was named after Frankfurt, Kentucky, reflecting the ties that early settlers had to that area. Frankfort was initially part of Frankfort Township, which was established in 1836, and the area was primarily agricultural. Early settlers grew crops like corn and wheat, and livestock farming was an essential part of the local economy.

Frankfort’s early years were closely linked to the development of transportation routes in the region. The arrival of the Chicago and Rock Island Railroad in the late 1850s played a key role in the town’s growth, connecting the village to Chicago and expanding trade and commerce. As more families moved to Frankfort, the town became an important center for farming and small industry.

Incorporated as a village in 1879, Frankfort continued to grow, but it remained a relatively quiet farming community well into the 20th century.

Frankfort Today: A Flourishing Suburb

Today, Frankfort is home to over 20,000 residents (as of the 2020 U.S. Census) and is recognized as one of the most desirable communities in the southwestern suburbs of Chicago. Despite its growth and increasing suburbanization, Frankfort has managed to retain its small-town charm, particularly in its downtown area, which has undergone revitalization in recent years. This blend of historical character with modern development makes Frankfort a unique place to live.

Economy and Development

Historically a farming community, Frankfort's economy has diversified over the years. It now features a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial development, with a strong emphasis on small businesses and service-oriented industries. The village has worked to balance development with the preservation of its suburban character, and today, Frankfort offers both residents and visitors a variety of amenities.

Key economic sectors include:

Retail and Services: Frankfort is home to a variety of locally-owned businesses, especially in its downtown area. The historic Frankfort Square, located in the heart of the village, features charming boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and specialty stores. The Frankfort Hills Shopping Center and The Shops of Frankfort offer additional retail options for residents. Frankfort has also seen growth in service-based businesses, including real estate agencies, financial institutions, and healthcare providers.
Healthcare: Frankfort is within proximity to several top-tier medical facilities, including Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, providing residents with access to comprehensive healthcare services. Additionally, there are numerous local medical offices and clinics in Frankfort itself.
Education and Government: The village also benefits from its proximity to local government offices and schools. Frankfort School District 157-C serves K-8 students, while Lincoln-Way High School District 210 provides education for high school students. Governors State University, located a short drive away in University Park, provides options for higher education.
Industrial and Manufacturing: Although not as prominent as retail or healthcare, Frankfort also features light industrial businesses and distribution centers. These businesses benefit from the village's proximity to major transportation routes like Interstate 80 and U.S. Route 45, which provide easy access to the broader Chicagoland area.

Frankfort’s location near major highways and railways makes it an attractive place for businesses seeking to serve the greater Chicago market. The village's strategic location, combined with its high quality of life, makes it a preferred choice for both business owners and residents.

Education in Frankfort

Education is a significant draw for families moving to Frankfort. The village is served by Frankfort School District 157-C, which provides a strong academic foundation for elementary and middle school students. Schools such as Frankfort Square Elementary School, Limestone Middle School, and Heritage Grove Middle School are all part of this district, offering a range of educational programs and extracurricular activities for students.

For high school education, Frankfort is part of the Lincoln-Way High School District 210, which includes Lincoln-Way East High School, located within the village. Lincoln-Way East is known for its strong academic performance, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities, which include a variety of clubs, sports teams, and fine arts programs.

In addition to public schools, Frankfort is home to several private schools and religious institutions, providing additional educational options for families.

Recreation and Outdoor Activities

Frankfort is committed to maintaining a variety of recreational options for its residents, including parks, nature preserves, and community facilities. The Frankfort Park District manages several parks and recreational programs in the area, offering everything from sports leagues to fitness classes to community events.

Some popular parks in Frankfort include:

Founders Park: Located in the heart of downtown Frankfort, this park features playgrounds, a walking trail, and plenty of open space for picnics and outdoor activities. It is also the site of various community events throughout the year.
Breidert Green: This historic park is the setting for many local festivals and events, including Frankfort’s Summer Concert Series. It is also home to the Frankfort Band Shell, where free concerts are held during the summer months.
Old Plank Road Trail: A multi-use trail that runs through Frankfort, providing residents with access to walking, biking, and jogging paths. The trail connects to other nearby towns, making it popular for long walks or bike rides.
Frankfort Township Park: A large park offering sports fields, picnic areas, walking paths, and open spaces. It’s a popular spot for family outings, sports games, and community events.

Frankfort is also surrounded by natural preserves and forest preserves, including the Silver Lake Forest Preserve and the Sand Ridge Nature Center, which offer even more opportunities for outdoor exploration and recreation.

Transportation and Accessibility

One of the biggest advantages of living in Frankfort is its excellent transportation options. The village is strategically located with easy access to major highways, rail lines, and public transit, making it an ideal location for commuters.

Interstate 80 runs just north of Frankfort, providing direct access to downtown Chicago, the south suburbs, and western Illinois. This highway is a major transportation corridor, making it easy to get to other parts of the region quickly.
U.S. Route 45 (La Grange Road) also runs through Frankfort, connecting it to neighboring communities such as Tinley Park, Orland Park, and Mokena.
Metra Rail: Frankfort is served by the Metra Rock Island Line, with a station located in nearby Mokena. This gives residents easy access to downtown Chicago, with a direct train route that makes commuting to the city convenient and affordable.

Public transportation options, combined with an efficient local road network, make Frankfort an ideal location for those who want to enjoy suburban living while still having access to the cultural and professional opportunities available in Chicago.

Community Events and Culture

Frankfort has a strong sense of community, and its residents actively participate in a variety of events and activities throughout the year. The village hosts several festivals, fairs, and concerts that bring people together and celebrate local culture.

Some popular events in Frankfort include:

Frankfort Fall Festival: One of the village’s most anticipated events, this festival features live music, food vendors, carnival rides, and arts and crafts. It’s a great way for the community to come together and enjoy the season.
Concerts in the Park: Held during the summer months, this series of free outdoor concerts brings local bands and musicians to Breidert Green and other outdoor venues.
Farmers’ Market: Frankfort’s farmers' market offers fresh, locally grown produce, homemade goods, and crafts, creating a vibrant shopping experience every week during the warmer months.

The village also has a strong arts and culture scene, with several local galleries, theaters, and performance spaces that feature everything from local art exhibitions to community theater productions.

Looking Ahead: Growth and Development

As Frankfort continues to grow, it faces some of the challenges typical of fast-developing suburban areas, including managing residential growth, expanding infrastructure, and maintaining a high quality of life. The village’s planning and zoning efforts have helped balance development with preservation, ensuring that Frankfort retains its small-town charm even as it expands.

In the coming years, Frankfort is poised to continue its growth, with more commercial and residential developments planned for the area. The community’s commitment to its schools, parks, and local businesses positions it well for continued success.